Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling behavior by one person who has a personal, intimate, or familial relationship with another. Statistics show that -- on average -- a woman in the United States will be battered very 12 seconds¹ and in Florida, someone is killed by a family member every 36 hours².

In America, 4 million women are beaten by their domestic partners each year³. Result of this behavior causes work absenteeism, miscarriages, and skyrocketing health costs among other negative effects.

Not all battering is physical. It can be disguised as economic or emotional and verbal abuse, including behaviors that intend to demean or degrade. Although 95% of the incidences are caused by males, women can and do commit domestic violence. However it is usually emotional or verbal battering, and the results are not comparable to the physical injuries caused by males to females. Males, however explain this abuse as real -- and just as damaging.

Recently in Broward County, (Fort Lauderdale) Florida, a study was made on Domestic Violence filings. During 1999, out of 7,374 Domestic Violence cases filed, 5,459 were filed by females and 1,915 were filed by males. The Supervisor of Court Administration for the unit indicates that they offer both male and female victims information about counseling support groups, child care, shelter, and legal services.
He adds," We don't care what the gender is,
If they're abused, we're here for them.⁴

Domestic violence impacts and affects the family in many ways. It is hidden from public view, secret, and not talked about. Victims are often afraid to seek help for fear of reprisal, loss of their family, and economic devastation. Resorting to the cycles of abusive behavior and violence can become a response to life’s stress.

Sadly, children can learn this behavior. (Have you noticed your child acting out in this manner?) If you are a victim, then only you can stop this cycle for yourself and your children. Leaving is a very hard thing to do. It takes courage and planning. It takes time. You must be emotionally ready to leave. You love the person who behaves like this but you long to be released from the fear and loss of self.

Help yourself. Make a plan for you and your children.

Mary Ann will answer all calls as to domestic violence and will assist in referrals to local services available. Restraining orders will be available to the victim and education is offered to stop the cycle. Please take the time to call if you are involved in an abusive relationship.

(1) Jones, Next Time She’ll be Dead 1994, Beacon Press
(2) Journal of American Medical Association Resident Forum, 1996
(3) Governor’s Task Force on Domestic Violence Fact Sheet, Tallahassee, Florida, 1996
(4) Sentinel Sept.16,2000,John Allman