Get Educated
According to an FBI study, domestic violence and abuse is one of the most underreported crimes in the country. Only approximately one-quarter of all physical assaults, one-fifth of all rapes, and one-half of all stalkings perpetuated against females by intimate partners are reported to the police. Domestic violence cases against men remain especially under the radar as male victims have a greater tendency to regard domestic abuse as a “private problem” of no legitimate concern to anyone but themselves. Not only do they commonly blame themselves but they often keep quiet in fear of being regarded a “wimp” for not being able to fend for themselves.
It’s important for victims to realize that the fear and pain they have been inflicted with is not their fault. We must make people understand that victims, as well as perpetrators, come from all walks of life and that victims do not choose batterers; batterers choose victims. Victims do not stay in a violent relationship because they like the abuse, but rather because they feel it is not safe for them to leave or that they have no other choice. As a community it is our job to help them see the light.
It’s important for victims to realize that the fear and pain they have been inflicted with is not their fault. We must make people understand that victims, as well as perpetrators, come from all walks of life and that victims do not choose batterers; batterers choose victims. Victims do not stay in a violent relationship because they like the abuse, but rather because they feel it is not safe for them to leave or that they have no other choice. As a community it is our job to help them see the light.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP friends or family members who are being abused:
- Explain that FREE and CONFIDENTIAL help is available for victims and their children at several local programs. Offer assistance to locate the local Domestic & Sexual Violence program, a place to make a phone call or offer childcare while they attend appointments
Friends or family members of abusers
- Call the police if you see/hear abuse
- Tell them there are no excuses for abuse and they may lose their families, friends, homes and jobs if it doesn’t stop
- Hold them accountable for their behavior
- Support their efforts to locate and obtain an appropriate batterer intervention program
Support your local domestic and sexual violence program at CENTER OF HOPE
- Offer to board pets while victims are in shelter; sponsor a family for a holiday meal, donate holiday gifts, etc.
- Contact program staff to learn more about the many ways you can volunteer
- Make monetary donations or donate phone cards, gift certificates, bus tickets, etc.
If you or someone you know needs help, PLEASE CALL
Maury County 24-hour Crisis and Referral Hotline at (931) 381-8580
OR National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Maury County 24-hour Crisis and Referral Hotline at (931) 381-8580
OR National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
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