Decoding domestic violence against women

Of at least 5.3 million women who are battered each year, 1,232 die at the hands of their partner. Unsurprisingly, the leading cause of injury to women is domestic abuse. These terrifying statistics should make sense when you consider that the costs of health care services for victims of abuse amount to nearly $4.1 billion a year.

For those outside the realm of spousal or partner abuse, the reasons for causing such violence and also accepting it can be confusing. A man usually hits his wife or partner when he loses his temper, or has grown up seeing such atrocities, thinking that he is fine. Also, other reasons men give include showing a woman her place or proving that the man is the boss.

Those of us who have fortunately never had to deal with abusive relationships may not understand why a woman can’t just leave her abusive partner. In most cases, this is easier said than done. Women who grew up watching their fathers beat their mothers can look forward to this when they get married. Also, it can be easier to stay than to leave. Women could fear being harassed by the ex-partner and being treated even worse than before. Single parenting is also a troubling consideration.

The cycle of abuse can leave a woman confused about whether or not she is really in a violent relationship. It begins with an incident that leads to mounting tension. Eventually, the man physically or otherwise attacks the woman. Later, he regrets his actions and acts much nicer to his wife or partner. This may lead her to think that he will not abuse her again, but the cycle of abuse may continue in a downward spiral.

Abuse can come in many forms, although most people think that it is purely physical. Bodily harm is definitely a big advocate for hospital visits due to domestic violence. It includes pushing, hitting, choking, kicking, and biting, or the threat of such actions. Economic or financial abuse occurs when the man takes and keeps the female partner’s paycheck, or does not provide her with enough money to survive. Sexual abuse includes rape and forcing a woman to do things she doesn’t want to do. Emotional abuse is a mind game where the man controls the woman and degrades her with words.

Any of these types of abuse is devastating. The cycle of abuse will continue unless steps are taken to successfully separate the man from the woman he is abusing. If you or someone you love is in an abusive relationship, you may want to consider getting a divorce. In the Orlando area, a good firm to look at is Schlegel Law Group, whose website you can find here.