Protect Yourself from Abuse
Domestic violence is a widespread problem that occurs among all ages, genders, races, educational backgrounds, and socioeconomic groups.
The Extent of the Problem
- Nearly 2 million women are battered annually and more likely than men to be murdered as the result of domestic violence.
- Approximately 2 million children annually are seriously abused.
- Approximately 900,000 parents are beaten or abused by their children each year.
- 1 out of every 14 American men report they have been physically assaulted or raped by an intimate partner.
Safety Tips for You and Your Family
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If you are the victim of intimate partner violence and need immediate, assistance dial 911. Otherwise, contact your local battered women’s shelter, family physician, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or (1-800-787-3224 TTY ) for help and advice. The National Domestic Violence Hotline website at www.ndvh.org also provides resources.
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If you are or think you may become a perpetrator of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or (1-800-787-3224 TTY) or visit website www.ndvh.org. They can provide helpful information and advice.
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Learn the early warning signs for physical violence such as a partner’s extreme jealousy, controlling behavior, verbal threats, history of violent tendencies or abusing others, and verbal or emotional abuse.
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Learn more about domestic violence and the warning signs. The more you know, the easier it will be to recognize and help friends who may be victims or perpetrators.
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Know what services are available for victims and perpetrators and their children in case you or a friend should need help.
What You Can Do in Your Community
- Support increased access to services for victims and perpetrators and their children.
- Coordinate community initiatives to strengthen safety networks for women who experience violence.
- Increase public awareness to help decrease and prevent domestic violence.
Sources: “Intimate Partner Violence: Prevention Tips and Resources,
CDC National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, www.cdc.gov/ncipc/
American College of Emergency Physicians, www.acep.org
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, www.ncadv.org
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