Do You Know The Signs of Domestic Violence?

Greetings!

October has been designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so I would like to take a few  minutes to talk to you regarding the dangers and harm of abuse.

When I was studying for my undergraduate degree it was required that all students complete a 250 plus hour practicum, which would allow for hands on experience in the field of social science.  Due to my full time employment as a single parent I knew the only way I could fulfill that requirement was through an agency that was open 24 hours, seven days per week.  Thus began my thought process of what type of agency that might be and a domestic violence safe house occurred to me.

Upon my exploring the appropriate channels to locate one I readily did, and with limited knowledge of domestic violence my internship began.  I was both curious and intrigued about my choice which turned out to be an extremely meaningful experience in every way.

When we think of domestic violence we often exclusively think a woman is the sole victim, but it may surprise you to know men can also be victims of this type of assault on one’s dignity.  Just as there are safe houses for women, are you aware there are also safe houses for men?

Domestic violence is classified as both physical as well as emotional or what’s also referred to as emotional abuse, and it is important to realize domestic violence affects more than the person who is on the receiving end of such acts most especially children, the elderly, and other loved ones who witness or are aware of such unacceptable, disrespectful, and violent behavior.

As single parents it is imperative that you know what some of the signs of an abuser look like. For example, he OR she might at first appear extremely charming while at the same time showing signs of control, they often change their behaviors in front of your friends or family, they gradually isolate you from friends or family members, they constantly “check upon you” when you are not present to ensure your whereabouts, they are often excessively jealous or possessive, they often possess a very “short fuse’ or quick temper, they often use vulgar language in your presence or sometimes in the presence of your friends or family members.

If these traits remind you of anyone you are involved with a major ALARM should sound right not.  My advice to you is simply, GET OUT.  It will NOT change, he or she will NOT change.  Remember what I say in my book “Single And ApParent”, you OWE your child a safe and stable environment, and there is absolutely no place in a safe and stable environment for any form of abuse whether physical, verbal, or emotional.

I will leave you with a very impactful slogan I learned the very first day of my undergraduate internship, “once a victim…twice a volunteer.”

If you need further support, contact the National Domestic Violence hotline at: 800-799-2233 (SAFE).

I always welcome and value your questions or comments.  Be safe.

Peace.