Domestic Violence is any behavior within the family or relationship that causes physical, emotional, sexual or financial harm to another person.  Domestic violence occurs between current or former partners or spouses; in both opposite and same sex relationships; in all socio-economic and age classes; in all racial, ethnic and religious groups; and in all occupational and educational backgrounds.

Power and Control

Batterers may use many tactics ranging from subtle intimidation to serious injury and even death to control their partners. They will use:

• Emotional and psychological abuse
• Name-calling, blaming, put-downs, showing jealousy or possessiveness
• Isolating the partner from friends and family
• Threatening harm to self or suicide

Financial or Economic Abuse

• Stealing or misusing partner’s money; ruining the partner’s credit
• Preventing the partner from working or attending school
• Destroying property or possessions

Physical Abuse

• Shoving, hitting, pushing, grabbing, or slapping, kicking, biting or pulling hair
• Strangling
• Assaulting with weapons
• Hurting or killing pets

Sexual Abuse

• Forcing unwanted sexual activity
• Pressuring to get pregnant or have an abortion
• Calling the partner sexually degrading names

Stalking

• Following or going to partner’s home or work (unwanted)
• Tapping phones
• Using internet to track communications or activities
• Sending unwanted gifts

Safety Plan

If you are in an abusive relationship:

• Think of a safe place to go in your home if an argument occurs. Avoid rooms with no exits (bathroom), or rooms with weapons (kitchen).  Teach children to dial 911.
• Make a list of safe people to contact and think about where you could go if you should leave. Have phone numbers nearby.
• Ask friends or neighbors to call the police if they hear angry or violent noises. Establish a "code word" or "sign" so that family, friends, or co-workers know when to call for help.
• Pack a bag containing some clothing, medications and other items that you and your children would need in case you are able to flee the home. The bag may need to stay hidden (or placed with a friend) until you are ready to leave.
• Keep with you at all times: some cash; driver’s license; credit cards; social security cards; extra keys to house and car; birth certificates for you & children; passports; work permits; address book; Protective Order, divorce papers, custody order
• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger!
  • You have the right to live without fear and violence. Albemarle Hopeline can help! Call 252-338-3011