NCJ Number
137779
Date Published
1992
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Research indicates that there is a substantial population of women and children in the U.S. who must choose between homelessness or subjecting themselves to domestic violence. The domestic violence movement has attempted to respond to their unique needs by developing shelter services for battered women and their children.
Abstract
Many experts agree that domestic violence is an outgrowth of economic, social, and ideological systems that encourage and perpetuate sexual inequality and patriarchal domination. Domestic violence occurs among all races and classes, although males are the most frequent perpetrators. Once it occurs, domestic violence tends to increase in frequency and intensity; it is often intergenerational. Female victims tend to have low self-esteem, often are powerless, and have traditional outlooks. They often present physical symptoms including headaches, anxiety, gastrointestinal complaints, and sleeping problems. Emergency food, shelter, and clothing are needs of all homeless populations. Domestic violence survivors also require safety, medical attention, and immediate counseling and emotional support. Long-range needs include low-cost housing, employment, legal assistance, and counseling. The first services designed specifically for homeless battered women were developed in England in the early 1970's. As a result of the women's and antirape movements in this country, multipurpose women's centers were opened nationwide. The first American domestic violence shelters opened in 1975 and after 1976, hundreds of battered women's shelters, hotlines, and safe home programs were established. 21 references