Domestic Violence

 What is Domestic Violence?

 "Domestic violence" means an act or a threatened act of violence upon a person with whom the actor is or has been involved in an intimate relationship. "Intimate relationship" means a relationship between spouses, former spouses, past or present unmarried couples, or persons who are both the parents of the same child regardless of whether the persons have been married or have lived together at any time.  C.R.S. 18-6-800.3

 

The goal of domestic violence is to establish and maintain power and control.  All socioeconomic groups, education and income levels, race, religious and ethnic groups are affected by domestic violence.  Statistics also show that 50% of men who abuse their partner also abuse the children in the relationship.

 

Domestic Violence is the leading cause of injury to females between the ages of 18 and 44 with 95% of reported cases of domestic violence involving a male batterer and female victim, although men can and are victims, too. 

Types of abuse:

Physical: slapping, pushing, hitting, kicking, biting, etc.

Emotional: name-calling, putting down, insults, etc.

Sexual: being forced into sexual contact

Threats: "If you...I'll kill you!"

Intimidation: gestures, looks, smashing things

Isolation: being kept from seeing or talking to others, not allowed to go out.

Economic: being given an allowance, not allowed to have a job, etc.

All can be used to maintain power and control over the victim.

Although public awareness about domestic violence has increased dramatically over the past decade, it continues to be underreported and misunderstood. For more information about the dynamics of domestic violence, visit the "Links" page.

 

To take the "Relationship Quiz" click here.

 

 Domestic Violence Victim Bill of Rights
 

  • You have the right NOT to be abused.

  • You have the right to anger over past beatings.

  • You have a right to choose to change the situation.

  • You have a right to freedom from fear of abuse.

  • You have a right to request and expect assistance from police or social agencies.

  • You have a right to share your feelings and not be isolated from others.

  • You have a right to want a better role model of communication for yourself and your children.

  • You have a right to be treated like an adult.

  • You have a right to leave the battering environment.

  • You have a right to privacy.

  • You have a right to express your own thoughts and feelings.

  • You have a right to develop your individual talents and abilities.

  • You have a right to legally prosecute the abusing spouse.

  • You have a right not to be perfect.

(Adapted from; Victimology: An International Journal., Vol. 2 1977-78, No. 3-4, p.550)

 

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