October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Initiated in 1981, the observance is designed to unite different organizations in better educating the public about this scourge.
Domestic violence hides behind closed doors. Its victims are reluctant to talk about it. The end result can be deadly, and if the woman is not killed, she’s often forced to have an abortion.
These situations involve a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain, or maintain, control over another. It happens to people in all walks of life regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or socio-economic status.
Common tactics include physical violence, sexual and emotional abuse, intimidation, and isolation.
Leading Cause of Injuries To Women
Not surprisingly, it overwhelmingly affects women, who represent 97% of all such cases. In fact, domestic violence is the leading cause of injuries to women, more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
Often, the violence ends in death. Georgia statistics bear this out. Between 2010 and 2019, there were 1,380 domestic violence-related deaths (overwhelmingly women) in the state, according to the Georgia Commission on Family Violence. That total ranked Georgia 10th in the nation for the rate of men killing women.
In 49% of those cases, the victim began their relationship with the person who eventually killed them when they were between the ages of 13-24.
Another startling statistic is that children witnessed those murders in 37% of those cases.
Behavior Patterns in Domestic Violence
Domestic violence generally follows the same pattern. Initially, relational conflicts result in the perpetrator exerting increasing control over the partner by engaging in emotional abuse, mild physical abuse, and intimidation. He undermines her confidence and self-esteem, isolates her from family and friends, and gives her a very limited spending account.
A serious physical assault is often the next step, which can include frequent injuries to the head, neck, breasts, and abdomen.
This is followed by a period of remorse, or “honeymoon” phase, during which he promises not to abuse her again. At this stage, he often buys gifts, or arranges special activities, or trips.
Women should not expect that a temporary pause in attacks means that the issue is resolved. The cycle of violence far too often begins again with increasing frequency and intensity. She may fear for her safety and that of her children because child abuse is frequently linked to partner abuse. In many cases the end result is death for the woman.
Shame-filled Silence Leads to More Suffering
Victims are often reluctant to discuss their situation with others because of a sense of shame, self-blame, or the fear of being judged. But remaining silent only ensures that their suffering will continue.
Women need to have the courage to be open with their healthcare providers who can refer them to one of the state-certified domestic violence programs. Shelters are available to offer protection during times of transition. (https://gcfv.georgia.gov/locations/certified-family-violence-intervention-program).
In addition, pro-life advocates who suspect someone they know may be a victim of domestic violence are strongly encouraged to look for an opportunity to discuss their situation.
Sources: gcfv.georgia.gov; justice.gov; domesticshelters.org; padv.org.
By Wayne DuBois
Georgia Right to Life
Media Relations Advisor