- Domestic violence (DV) is more than physical abuse. It includes emotional/psychological, verbal, threatening, and sexually abusive behavior. In addition, abusers typically control or limit their victim's access to economic resources and isolate them from friends, family, and the community.
- ANYONE can be an abuser just as ANYONE can be a survivor of domestic violence. This social problem effects families of all different ethnic backgrounds, people of all different ages, from every socioeconomic level, as well as men and women.
- However, statistics show us that women account for approximately 85% of intimate partner violence survivors (Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief, Intimate Partner Violence, 1993-2001, February 2003).
- That said, domestic violence is a chronically underreported phenomenon so we do not fully understand the make-up of the abuser and survivor populations.
Coastal Women's Shelter
Do you want to learn more about domestic violence? The links below will connect you to more detailed information about specific concerns related to the issue of domestic violence.
- The Duluth Model - This theoretical framework explores the mechanisms of power and control that are characteristic of abusive and egalitarian relationships. We recommend taking a look at the various "Power & Control" wheels.
- National facts regarding domestic violence - This information is provided by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
- Facts about domestic violence in North Carolina - This information is provided by the North Carolina Council for Women.
If you think that you are being abused, or if you know someone who might be in an abusive relationship, there is a way out.
Call, or come by, one of our offices and/or explore the information available on-line to learn more about how to become a survivor, not a victim, of domestic violence.
