Statistics on the Prevalence of Domestic Abuse
Severe physical domestic violence – strangling, burning, or beating – has victimized one in seven men and one in four women during their lifetimes. National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (2020) states that “1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner … e.g. slapping, shoving, pushing” (para. 2). Every seventh woman has been seriously injured by her partner, whereas one in twenty-five men has had similar experiences, and every tenth woman reports having been raped by the intimate partner.
National and Local Resources for Victims of Domestic Abuse
The National Domestic Violence Hotline receives funding from The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA), and this hotline acts as a lifeline for victims in need. Those seeking immediate assistance can reach the hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or TTY 1−800−787−3224; however, deaf callers have the option to use a Video Phone at (206) 518-9361 (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2023). The Hotline’s official website is located at: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/fysb/programs/family-violence-prevention-services/programs/ndvh. For Maryland residents, the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence provides assistance. Their website is https://www.mnadv.org/, and they also utilize the national hotline number 1-800-799-7233 (Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence, 2023). In addition, dialing 211 connects individuals to local domestic violence service providers in Maryland.
Addressing the Issue of Domestic Abuse
I fully recognize the importance of spreading awareness about the staggering statistics on domestic violence; thus, I strongly commit to supporting both local and national initiatives that provide resources as well as assistance to the victims. In addition, I believe that open and honest conversations in my communities will help with breaking this vicious cycle of abuse since it will encourage mobilizing our community resources. I encourage everyone to take action, be it by donating or merely offering a listening ear to someone in need.
References
Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence. (2023). Help is close by. Web.
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. (2020). Domestic violence [PDF document]. Web.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2023). National Domestic Violence Hotline. Web.