Domestic Violence and Its Reverberations

Domestic violence is control by one partner over another in a dating, marital or live-in relationship. The means of control include physical, sexual, emotional and economic abuse, threats and isolation. Survivors face many obstacles in trying to end the abuse in their lives. These obstacles include psychological and economic entrapment, physical isolation and lack of social support, challenges to religious and cultural values, fear of social judgement, threats and intimidation over custody or separation, immigration status or disabilities and lack of viable alternatives. Despite the vastness and power of these challenges most are able to overcome them because of increased public, legal and health care awareness and improved community resources that enable survivors to rebuild their lives. Domestic violence occurs in every culture, country and age group. It affects people from all socio-economic, educational and religious backgrounds and takes place in same sex as well as heterosexual relationships. Women with fewer resources or greater perceived vulnerability -- girls and those experiencing physical or psychiatric disabilities or living below the poverty line -- are at even greater risk for domestic violence and lifetime abuse. Children are also affected by domestic violence, even if they do not witness it directly. The book examines crucial issues in the field.