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The dangers of staying in an abusive relationship.
The cycle of violence that occurs in abusive relationships continues to worsen in severity and increase in frequency. The longer the abuse continues, the worse it gets. The longer you stay in the violent relationship, the greater your chances for severe injury and death.
In addition to the danger of physical injury is the spiritual, emotional and mental damage caused by continued exposure to violence and abuse. Many women (and their children) suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of this exposure.
Living in an abusive home is never good for anyone. Though it is hard to see when you are in the midst of the relationship, there are other options. If you are currently being abused, contact your local women’s shelter, police department or victim advocate for help now.
The ‘Other’ Victims
Children who witness violence in the home are victims of a secondary form of child abuse because they are exposed to the violence that is perpetrated by their fathers against their mothers. These children experience many of the same effects as children who are direct victims of the violence.
Children who witness this type of violence are prone to a decreased ability to concentrate, flashbacks, confusion, self-blame, fear, guilt, sleep disturbances, lack of trust, social withdraw and substance abuse. In addition, these children are learning how to have abusive relationships as adults.
Children who live in homes with domestic violence are also more likely to be abused themselves. In a national survey, it was found that 50% of the men who abuse their wives also frequently assault their children. (Templeton, G., 2002)
If you are in an abusive relationship and have children, child protective services can take custody of your children. Please take action to protect them- and you.
Life On Their Terms
Is My Partner Abusive?
The Cycle of Violence
Dangers of Staying
Healing From an Abusive Relationship
Online Support, Information and Resources
The 12 Step Cyber Café offers excellent online help in recovering from unhealthy relationships.
http://www.12steps.com/
National Domestic Violence Hotline site offers a wealth of information on domestic violence and getting help.
http://www.ndvh.org/
Sources:
The Domestic Violence Information and Referral Handbook, from the Domestic Violence Project of Santa Clara County, CA.
http://www.growing.com/nonviolent/index.htm
The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project of Duluth
https://www.theduluthmodel.org/
The American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/releases/facts.html
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