6: Domestic Violence 101

Learn about the dynamics of domestic violence and DV 101 in today’s episode - Claire, Laine and Jessica talk with Jennine Devenuti, YWCA’s Education and Prevention Manager. This topic will be split into two parts, so in this first part we will be looking into what domestic violence is, and what makes it different from other types of violence.

In this episode:

Where it begins – Domestic violence is the use of physical, sexual, and psychological coercion or force to establish and maintain control over a partner. It is a pattern of abusive behavior used over time. These behaviors are targeted and repeated, the violence increases in frequency and severity.

Myths – There are a lot of myths about what causes domestic violence – alcohol and other substances do not cause someone to be an abuser. There is also a misconception that men do not experience domestic violence, but the statistics show that 1 in 7 men experience domestic violence – this misconception is harmful because it prohibits male victims from seeking services. All of YWCA Pierce County’s services are gender-inclusive.

Victim Safety - Victim Safety: it is imperative that all responses to domestic violence keep the safety of the victim as the top priority. It is never appropriate to blame a victim for the abuse, or the make judgments about what they “should” do. A victim will know what survival skills work best in their situation, what is safe for themselves and their children and what is not. There are many reasons why victims do not leave abusive relationships. The main reason is safety—the most lethal time for a victim is while in the process of leaving an abuser.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call our 24-Hour Hotline at (253)383-2593.