| Domestic
abuse has been historically thought of as a "family matter" and virtually
ignored by the Justice System. In recent years, this attitude has begun
to change. Shelters for the victims of domestic violence first began to
open and operate in large cities and now are found in small towns as well.
Spousal abuse is now viewed as a crime. The social stigma has begun to
fade. This is in a large part the result of the high profile Simpson murder
trial. There are still many aspects of domestic violence which need to
be addressed. One of these is female on male violence. Domestic violence
is traditionally thought of as male on female aggression but, we must admit,
the opposite does occur with nearly the same frequency. It is important
to point out, however, that the incidence of serious injury - where there
is no use of weapon - is higher in male on female violence due to the general
differences in the size and strength of men and women. Another aspect of
domestic abuse that needs to be addressed is violence that occurs between
couples of the same sex. But first and foremost we must make it our responsibility to call for professional help when we hear the sounds of violence. We must make it our personal responsibility to offer assistance to anyone we suspect is the victim of violence. We must make it public policy not to tolerate domestic violence in any form.
This website is my first step towards achieving that personal goal. On these pages you will find my thoughts as an individual, a research paper that I have written, suggestions on the steps you need to take, and links to informational sites as well as to sites listing the help that is available if you are a victim of domestic violence. I hope, in the future, to provide a forum where those of us who have survived domestic abuse can share our feelings and stories in the hopes of supporting one another as we struggle to put the past behind us. If you are a member of this group, remember, you are not alone. There are many who have succeeded in creating a new life free of fear. But to take that path you must take the first step - run, don't walk, get to a safe place while you are still able. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
My Own Opinion Next Page: "I've Got A Secret" National Domestic Violence Hotline National Organization for Women: Together We Can Make a Difference Safety Net: Resources Center For the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence A National Initiative: The Silent Witness Program | 
|
