Information From Your Health Care Provider

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

(Battering; Spousal Abuse)

Basic information

description

Domestic violence is abuse, usually by a spouse or partner, in an intimate relationship. It may include physical, sexual, emotional, or financial abuse. The victim is usually a woman (95% of abuse cases). Because of shame and guilt, the victim may not report the abuse to police, medical care givers, or talk about it with family or friends. Cycles of abuse are: honeymoon (apology, affection), tension building (poor communication, fear), and acting out (abusive incidents). Abuse is common. It may occur in any race, age group, economic or educational level, or nationality.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

In female victims:
- Physical or sexual abuse injuries. These include broken bones, bruises, burns, choking, bites, rape, and others. Most injuries are to the head, neck, chest, abdomen, and breasts. Arm injuries may result from self defense.
- Other symptoms may include chronic pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, sleep disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, psychological problems, and thoughts of suicide.
In male abusers:
- Angry, suspicious, tense and/or moody behaviors. Sometimes they can be very charming. They go from periods of abuse to periods of affection.
- May display extreme jealousy and possessiveness. May not allow partner's friends/family to visit or call.
- Makes threats of violence or legal threats (such as custody of the children). May play with guns or knives.
- Prohibits access to money or other basic needs.

causes

The abuser's goal is to control the victim by the use of fear and force. It is unclear why some men are abusers and other men with similar risk factors are not.

risk increases with

A history of abuse in a family. Many male abusers and, often, female victims, witnessed abuse or were victims.
Male abusers tend to use alcohol or drugs, are often unemployed, and may be less educated. However, many educated, professional men are abusers.
Males who are dependent on women, have money worries, feelings of inadequacy, and have traditional (or archaic) attitudes (such as about sex).
Females lacking self-esteem and females who feel dependent and useless.
Pregnant females.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Women should seek help at the first sign of abuse. Don't assume the abuser will change or stop the abuse.

expected outcomes

For victims, help is available, if they choose to seek it.
Abusers are unlikely to change their behavior.

possible complications

Years of emotional and physical abuse. Alcohol and drug abuse by a female victim. Murder or suicide.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

If you are abused:
- Protect yourself, especially the head and abdomen. Get away from the abuser and get help. Document the abuse with pictures, telling someone, or calling 911.
- Have a personal safety plan set up. Have a place to stay, a way to get there, transportation, and survival funds. Have clothing and personal essentials packed.
- Seek legal help. Police departments are improving in responding to the problems of domestic violence.
- Agencies and shelters for helping abused women and children are available. Call a local crisis line.
Treatment steps for a victim:
- Get medical care for any injuries.
- Counseling is important. It can help a woman learn to cope and regain self-confidence and ability to function.
Treatment for the abuser:
- Treatment is often resisted by an abuser. Educational and treatment groups have had some success.
- Abusers must be confronted with the results of the behavior; that they can go to jail if they don't change.
To learn more: National Domestic Violence Hotline; (800) 799-7233; website: www.ndvh.org. Note: Be aware that an abuser may monitor mail, telephone, and Internet communication. Take precautions as needed.

medications

Drugs may be prescribed for anxiety or depression.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet.

notify our office if

You or a family member is a domestic violence victim.