DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE FAMILY AND MARRIAGE

Domestic abuse includes any attempt by one person in an intimate relationship or marriage to dominate and control the other.

Domestic violence and abuse are used for one purpose and one purpose only: to gain and maintain total control over you. An abuser doesn’t “play fair.” An abuser uses fear, guilt, shame, and intimidation to wear you down and keep you under their thumb.

Domestic abuse often escalates from threats and verbal assault to violence. And while physical injury may pose the most obvious danger, the emotional and psychological consequences of domestic abuse are also severe. Emotionally abusive relationships can destroy your self-worth, lead to anxiety and depression, and make you feel helpless and alone. 

FORMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

1.  Physical 2. Sexual 3. Psychological 4. Emotional 5. Economic 

WHY WOULD WOMEN CONTINUES TO STAY WITH HER ABUSER

1. Fear of the unknown either for financial reasons or not to loose her children 

2. Some women still believe that the violence was caused by them.

3. Some don't believe that they are abused 

ANY DO ABUSES OCCUR

1. Some see women as inferior or as property that was married 

2. Jealousy, possessiveness and easily angered 

3. Alcohol or drug abuse 

4. In sexual abuse, selfishness 

WHAT THE CATHOLIC CHURCH TEACHES ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have made clear that “violence against women, inside or outside the home, is never justified. Violence in any form- physical, sexual, psychological, or verbal is sinful; often it is a crime as well.”

 

WHERE TO FIND HELP FOR ABUSED PERSONS

1. Believe that you are not alone. Help is available for you and your children.

2. Talk in confidence to someone you trust: a relative, friend, pastor or family doctor.

3. If you choose to stay in the situation, set up a plan of action to ensure your safety. This includes hiding a car key, personal documents, and some money in a safe place and locating somewhere to go in an emergency.