DV Facts and Help Links
- VIOLENCE IS A TOOL
Used purposely by the perpetrator.
Research on aggression shows that people assault their loved ones for two primary reasons: to punish them and to control their behavior.
- VIOLENCE IS A CHOICE
It?s not the result of provocation.
Most violent people have control over their behavior. They choose to be violent because they think it?s their right and because it works?for the moment.
- VIOLENCE IS A CRIME
It?s a community problem, not just a family problem.
Anyone who assaults someone else has committed a crime. Arrest and prosecution for assaults deter many batterers from hitting again.
- DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AFFECTS ALL OF US
It breeds kids who will use force against others.
It leaves victims and abusers in isolation.
It fills friends, family and neighbors with fear.
It costs our community money, like any other disaster.
TO PREVENT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, WE CAN:
To stop violence we have to recognize and label abusive behavior when we see it. That helps create awareness of what?s going on for both victim and perpetrator.
To stop violence we have to interrupt the abuser?s control of his victim. Let her know she doesn?t deserve abuse and that help is available. Support her while she decides what to do. She may need to make several attempts. Don?t give up.
Is Someone You Know Being Abused?
- Seems to have more ?accidents? than most people you know.
- Is frequently late to work or often calls in sick.
- Receives harassing phone calls.
- Is expected to be home at a certain time and appears fearful of missing that deadline.
- Has no money to spend as she chooses even though she works. Is expected to turn over her paycheck to her spouse.
- Has decreased or dropped contact with family and/or friends.
- Abuses alcohol or drugs.
- Is either timid and retiring or aggressive and angry much of the time.
- Frequently disparages her own abilities, calling herself names like, ?dumb,? ?stupid,? ?clumsy,? ?worthless.?
- Has a number of physical complaints such as stomach pains, fatigue, migraine, and/or psychological complaints like anxiety or depression.
Don?t ignore the warning signs. Reach out with concern. Remind your friend/coworker/neighbor that help is available.
Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.ccadv.org
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.ncadv.org
Victim Outreach Information, Golden www.victimoutreach.org
Women in Crisis, Wheat Ridge www.thefamilytree.org
Last Modified: Mar 28, 2009 10:19 PM
