Diamond's House

Verbal and Emotional Abuse=Domestic Abuse

Let’s break the cycle of violence! Domestic Violence is definitely on the rise!  Domestic violence is a widespread social issue that affects thousands of people each year.  Domestic violence is something that affects every one of us in our community.  It doesn’t matter what your race, age, gender or religion is, or how much your yearly income is.  It does not discriminate!

Many people continue to believe that domestic violence is a private matter between a couple, rather than a criminal offense that merits a strong and swift response.  There is nothing further from the truth.

Silence is the batterer’s best friend.  And this has to change!  We all must do our part to help break the Silence and the break the cycle against this hideous crime towards other humans!

Things We Can Do When We Suspect Domestic Violence

• Neighbors must get involved and contact the police when they hear violent fights in their neighborhoods. Don’t turn up the television to block out the sounds of the drunken argument next door. Call the police.

• Teachers should be alert to signs that students have witnessed violence at home. Children who grow up in violent homes are more likely to become violent themselves.

• Medical professionals who see the victims of violence need to ask them about these crimes. Too often, doctors or emergency room personnel accept the statement of fearful victims that their bruises or cuts are the result of household accidents or falls. When a woman with a black eye says that she fell and hit the doorknob, doctors and nurses must ask: “Did someone hit you?”

• Members of the clergy need to become more involved as well. We just can’t tell a battered spouse to “go home and make it work,” as was done in the past. Sending a woman back to a battering husband often places her life at risk. Of course, we can’t tell a woman who lives in a violent relationship what to do, but we can make a greater effort to let her know that other options are available for her and her children. Early intervention is crucial.

These crimes are very serious. And experience shows that levels of violence in these relationships tend to escalate, many police departments cite domestic violence as their number one problem.

Tougher laws and effective prosecutions, combined with education and a cooperative approach among law enforcement and social service agencies, will take time to be effective. However, until then, we all must do our part and take a greater role in reporting domestic abuse. Our efforts to stop the violence and break the cycle can make a world of difference.

Share this post with your friends on FB and Twitter for spreading awareness may save someone’s life. Join us as we break the cycle of violence!