NCJ Number
154408
Date Published
1992
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This booklet provides information on the nature of domestic assault, its perpetrators, its victims, its impact on children in the family where it occurs, and how to seek help.
Abstract
Abuse is first defined as "mistreating another person and can be emotional, physical, or sexual." Characteristics of abusers are listed as inability to function emotionally, negative attitudes toward women, unhappy childhood recollections, alcohol or drug abuser, isolated, jealous, needs control, insecure, and believes in punishment. Also discussed are victim characteristics and why they stay in the abusive relationship. A discussion of the effects on children of exposure to domestic violence focuses on their sense that they are to blame in some way and the development of anxiety and anger. A section on how concerned outsiders can recognize and help children who live with domestic violence lists the characteristics of children and families exposed to domestic violence. The final two sections address how to look for help and where to go for help.