The Women's Health Resource Center

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence and spousal abuse are terms referring to violence occurring between partners in an ongoing relationship, regardless of marital status and sexual orientation.

There are several myths about domestic violence that need be dispelled.

1. Battered women do not all come from a lower socioeconomic class. In fact, battering occurs in all social groups regardless of race, religion or economic status.



2. Battered women do not enjoy abuse. Many women remain in abusive relationships due to fear, intimidation, concern for their children, low self-esteem or poor economics.



3. Women who are beaten do not provoke their partner. Violence stems from the abuser, not the victim.



4. Women continue to be abused even during pregnancy. As many as one-fourth of all pregnant women are abused.

It is difficult to assess the actual incidence of domestic violence in the United States, but it is estimated that at least 1.5 million cases of domestic violence occur each year. During their lifetime, 1 in every 5 women will be physically abused by a partner or ex-partner, increasing the risk of death due to homicide or suicide for both the victim and the batterer.

For more information contact the Women's Health Resource Center at (415) 600-0500 or the Community Health Resource Center at (415) 923-3155.

What you can do…

• Seeking help is the key to breaking the cycle of violence, call the national Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233). They are available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. They provide interpreters, counselors and referrals to local programs.



• Seek treatment for any physical injuries.



• Develop an exit plan. Have a change of clothes packed for you and your children. Store cash, checkbook, identification papers and other information together to help re-establish your life somewhere else.



• Seek individual therapy or family therapy for you and your children.



• Join a support group.