Abusive Relationships and Domestic Violence

 
Domestic violence has become both a medical and a social epidemic. It accounts for 20 percent of all doctor's visits by American women and 30 percent of all emergency room visits. One in 10 battered women attempts suicide; domestic violence victims are nine times more likely to attempt suicide than other women. These statistics are alarming. To abuse victims, however, they are all too real--living in fear has become their way of life.

Many battered women develop low self esteem and convince themselves they have nowhere to go -- one of many reasons they may stay with their abuser. Society tends to look on spouse abuse as a private matter, a "love spat" that will be resolved quickly.  Many women hesitate to blame the abuser.  But women in abusive relationships need to know that it is not their fault -- they are victims.  The more domestic violence is brought out in the open, the more women are likely to admit abuse and the less likely they are to suffer stigma.

There is no one reason why one person abuses another, although some theories indicate that abusive men have a need for power and control, stemming from a male-dominated culture.

Just as abuse occurs for various reasons, it can strike any woman -- regardless of race, age, social class or other factors.  Many women, however, think it can't happen to them and often let their guard down.  When abuse occurs, they often don't realize -- or don't want to realize -- they are being battered.

In addition to socioeconomic status, pregnancy may not provide a shield from abuse.  Some 25 to 40 percent of women are assaulted during pregnancy; in many cases, the abuse may begin or escalate at this time of increased emotional stress.

Many partners aim the abuse at the woman's abdomen or breasts during pregnancy. This is potentially harmful for the woman and the fetus, and may motivate women to seek help

The harm inflicted on battered women is not just physical.  Many times, women come into an Emergency Department suffering from psychological pain rather than physical injuries.  Doctors and nurses should be especially alert for injuries not apparent on the surface.

Many domestic violence victims also come in with medically unexplained symptoms--abdominal pain or persistent bodyaches that have a psychological source rather than a medical one. It's these women who may go unidentified as abuse victims, because their injuries are not necessarily physical. 
 

Ending the cycle of violence usually requires making arrangements for safety and planning a quick exit. Preparation involves knowing the telephone number of the police department; making arrangements for the children; setting aside an "emergency" bag with a change of clothes, Social Security card and other items; and making an extra set of keys to the house and car.

Area Women's Shelters

Women's Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (412-687-8005)
Crisis Center North (412-364-5556)
Womansplace (412-678-4616)
Washington Women's Shelter (724-223-9190)

Internet Resources

Crisis Center North
Domestic Violence Hotline Resource List
Domestic Violence: The Facts
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Washington Women's Shelter
Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh
Womansplace