Domestic Violence Hurts Everyone
Author: Pastor Tammy Mitchell
Have you or someone you know been a victim of domestic violence? Recent headlines of domestic violence include Rhianna and Chris Brown, both secular song artists and Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Bishop Thomas Weeks. This is an indication that domestic violence occurs inside and outside of the church. Statistics state one out of every 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Domestic violence does not just occur against women, but it also occurs to men.
Domestic violence constitutes the willful intimidation, assault, battery, sexual assault or other abusive behavior perpetrated by one family member, household member, or intimate partner against another. Amazingly, men who kill the women they abuse receive a prison sentence of 2-6 years while a woman who kills her abuser can receive a prison sentence of up to 15 years.
Domestic violence affects not only those abused, but witnesses, family members, co-workers, friends, and the community at large. Children who witness domestic violence are victims themselves and growing up amidst violence predisposes them to a multitude of social and physical problems. Constant exposure to violence in the home and abusive role models teaches these children that violence is a normal way of life and places them at risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Domestic violence crosses every racial, economic and social line. Domestic violence is about power and control. There are different types of domestic abuse. There is verbal abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse.
Domestic violence victims may minimize the seriousness of incidents in order to cope, and not seek medical attention or assistance when needed. Victims, because they fear the perpetrator and may be ashamed of their situation, may be reluctant to disclose the abuse to family, friends, work, the authorities, or victim assistance professionals. As a consequence, they may suffer in silence and isolation. Contact a local domestic violence program. These programs are in many communities around the country and can provide: counseling and support groups; information about legal options, the criminal justice system, and social services; shelter.
Create a comprehensive safety plan. With assistance from a victim service professional, victims should create an individualized plan for safety in all situations, including a checklist of necessary items to take when leaving an abusive situation. Consider legal options. In every state, domestic violence is a crime.
Remember you were created in the image of God. And God asks each of us to love our neighbor as ourselves. You are not alone! There is a lot of help available for you. Please visit www.sistertosister.name God Loves You
and So do I.
About the Author: Pastor, Mentor, Spiritual Counselor, Conference Speaker and Bible Teacher. Founder of Sister to Sister Ministry and The Well Spring of Life. Our top priority is to help individuals establish and develop a personal relationship with Christ. It is our desire to connect with sisters in every city, state, and the nations. It is a privilege to connect with you, through prayer, worship and in sharing the awesome Word of God. We are here to encourage, inspire and challenge you to become all that God has destined for your life. This is a praying ministry. We have a heart of compassion for people from all walks of life and especially for those who are hurting. Our purpose is to maintain the same values as that of Our Father, and be a living example of his love and grace to all mankind. We are not into religion, but we do believe in relationships. It’s not about us but it’s about Jesus.
Article Source: www.articlesbase.com
|
