FACTS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

* Many studies demonstrate the contribution of domestic violence to homelessness, particularly among families with children. 39% of cities cite domestic violence as the primary cause of family homelessness (U.S. Conference of Mayors, 2007). Two years prior, that figure had been 50% (U.S. Conference of Mayors, 2005). A 2003 survey of 100 homeless mothers in10 locations around the country found that 25% of the women had been physically abused in the last year (American Civil Liberties Union, 2004). State and local studies also demonstrate the impact of domestic violence on homelessness

* In San Diego, a survey done by San Diego’s Regional Task Force on the Homeless found that 50% of homeless women are domestic violence victims (American Civil Liberties Union, 2004).



Long Term Affect of Domestic Violence

Physical Effects:

Many of the physical injuries sustained by women seem to cause medicaldifficulties as women grow older. Arthritis, hypertension and heartdisease have been identified by battered women as directly caused byaggravated by domestic violence early in their adult lives.

Psychological Effects:

Depression remains the foremost response, with 60% ofbattered women reporting depression (Barnett, 2000).

Impact on Children:

The long-term effects of child sexual abuse include depression andself-destructive behavior, anger and hostility, poor self-esteem,feelings of isolation and stigma, difficulty in trusting others(especially men), and martial and relationship problems, and a tendency toward re victimization.
(Finkelhor & Brown, 1988)

Economic Impact :

Victims often lose their jobs because of absenteeism due to illness as a result of the violence. Absences occasioned by court appearances can also jeopardize their livelihood.


           For more information:


The 24-hour HELP LINE, 847-249-4450; TTY 847-249-6557, can provide assistance in accessing services.

References

National Organization for Women


Vitanza, S., Vogel, L.C., & Marshall, L.L. (1995). Distress and Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Abused Women. Violence and Victims, 10, 23-34.





Violence Against Women in the United States

In a national survey of more than 6,000 American families, 50 percent of the men who frequently assaulted their wives also frequently abused their children.

 If you feel you are in danger call: 911"


WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?


Domestic Violence is a system of power and control over an intimate partner. Domestic violence includes any and all forms of abuse:  See Below:

Domestic Violence Include:

  Physical Abuse!

Pushing or shoving.
Hitting or slapping.
Strangling or restraining by force.
Pulling hair.
Punching, kicking.
Twisting arms, tripping.
Using a weapon, i.e. gun, knife, blunt object, lighted cigarette.

          Sexual Abuse!

Forcing or coercing a sexual activity that is not wanted or consented to (rape, oral sex, anal sex).Forced prostitution.

Repeated accusations of sexual activity with others, i.e. calling partner whore or slut.

Emotional Abuse!

Intimidation--putting the victim in fear by using looks, actions, gestures, loud voice, destroying property. Isolation--controlling what the victim does, who the victim sees and talks to, and where the victim goes. Putting the victim down, name calling, mind games.

Economic Abuse!

trying to keep the victim from getting or keeping a job, making a partner ask or beg for money.

Threats!!--making threats to hurt the victim or the children, to take the children, and/or commit suicide.



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