Editorial

Seeing things like bruises, scars or even broken bones on other people may be something that everyone is used to. Imagine seeing those things on someone you love. Only for the bruises, scars and broken bones to be caused by someone they love.

Defined by the United States Department of Justice, domestic violence is “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner.”

Domestic violence can be anything that is physical, sexual, emotional, economical or psychological. It can also involve anyone, from males to females and even children. Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate against race, gender, age, sexual orientation or even religion. It can easily happen to anyone, at any time.

Violence can easily make its way to our campus. It could be your neighbor, your sister, your friend or even you. Domestic Violence has a way of disguising itself so even the ones who are closest to it don’t even realize.

Every year in October, domestic violence is recognized. The Southeastern community along with the Durant Crisis Center gets together to raise awareness against domestic violence with a candle light vigil.

According to domesticviolencestatistics.org, the leading cause of injury to women is domestic violence, more than car accidents, rape and muggings combined. Also, one in five teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a break up.

Domestic violence isn’t just physical though. It can also be psychological and emotional. Calling names and yelling obscene gestures can also be considered violence.

Emotional abuse can be anything from undermining the person’s self-esteem or self-worth, to constant criticism and damaging the relationship they have with their children.

Threatening to hurt their self, their partner or their children and the destruction of pets or property are just a few examples of psychological abuse.

Women around the world are scared of telling the authorities about the violent situation they may be in because of what would happen to them if their partner were to find out. With the help of funding, shelters are available for women and children who are trying to leave the violent situations they are currently in.

Outsiders who are involved in a domestic violence situation have a hard time understanding what can take place if they were to leave their spouse. Sometimes getting out of a relationship is easier said than actually done. Being supportive of the victim is an important part of the healing process. When they are ready to leave, they will slowly make their way out. If children are involved, the victim has more to think about than people realize.

Children who grow up witnessing violence of any kind are among those that are seriously affected by the crime, according to the department of justice. Exposed children are also likely to have physical and social problems. Domestic Violence, therefore, teaches children that that is a normal way of life and it may increase their risk of being a victim or an abuser themselves.

With the help of shelters and counselors along with authorities, women and children have an advantage of freeing themselves of the pain that comes with domestic violence. Shelters provide a safe environment for the children and their mother along with a place to receive counseling to help cope with the violence haunting them.

Besides domestic violence, there are also different types of violence on women. Sexual assault, dating violence and stalking are all things that the department of justice see as areas of focus for the Office of Violence Against Women.

Violence doesn’t just affect one person. It is a cycle that can have an effect on family members, friends, and co-workers. Children aren’t the only ones being affected but they are the main priority when it comes to a domestic violence situation.

If anyone is experiencing any kind of violence in their relationship or if anyone is a witness to relationship violence, they shouldn’t hesitate to go to the authorities for help. It could possibly save the life of a loved one or even a child that didn’t ask to be involved.