Domestic Violence in the United States

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Domestic violence affects a large amount of relationships in the United States each year. As the times have changed, abuse has become less accepted as a normal occurrence, and society has begun working together to provide awareness towards violence in intimate partner relationships. “Problems of family violence are potentially the most destructive in our society” (Kurland 23). Domestic violence is a problem that begins in the home, and spreads to affect the world around it. Violence is present in relationships of all demographics, be it race, sexual orientation, or social class. No one is entirely safe from experiencing abuse, but if society is taught to recognize the signs it can save a life or even prevent abuse from happening. Abuse may not outwardly begin as a physical action against the victim. “Approximately two-thirds of Americans say it is hard to determine whether someone has been a victim of domestic abuse” (Break The Cycle). The abuser typically starts by attacking the victim mentally and emotionally. Beginning signs that one could be in an abusive relationship is if the suspected abuser shows signs of possessiveness, extreme jealousy, or insecurity over the relationship. More expressive signs of violent behavior would be an explosive temper, unpredictable mood swings, or constantly putting down his/her partner (Break The Cycle). By expressing these characteristics, an abuser will begin to isolate the victim from his/her family and friends. Once he or she has managed to create an attachment between the victim and themselves, the physical violence might begin to take place. After an attack, oftentimes the abuser will excessively apologize to the victim in an attempt to earn back their trust. Victims are often embarrasse... ... middle of paper ... ...-violence-men/> Krehbiel, James. “Abuse through the eyes of the abuser”. Family Resource. 16 August 2011. 1 October 2013. Kurland, Morton L. Coping With Family Violence. New York, NY: The Rosen Publishing Group Inc., 1986. Love is Respect. 31 January 2013. Break The Cycle. 16 September 2013. Schwartz, Melissa. “When Closeness Breeds Cruelty: Helping victims of intimate partner violence”. American Nurse. 14 June 2007. Stop Relationship Abuse. 2013. Relationship Abuse Awareness. 16 September 2013. Wilson, Mark. “Domestic Violence in the LGBT community”. American Progress. 14 June 2011. 16 September 2013.

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