Understanding Spousal Abuse: Facts, Impact, and Resources

Spousal abuse, commonly referred to as domestic violence, is a crime. Spousal abuse is committed by both genders, and is not an effect of social status, education or wealth. However, according to the National Council on Child Abuse and Family Violence (NCCAFV), statistics show women are more often victims of battering. (See Reference 1)

Effects

• Spousal abuse in the United States is a public health concern because of the magnitude of people affected by the crime. Domestic violence often goes unreported. The abuse often continues, and sometimes leads to death. (See Reference 1 and Resource 1)

Types

• Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse, but encompasses the following: sexual abuse, and emotional and psychological abuse. (See Reference 1)

Physical

• Physical abuse is defined as hitting, biting, scratching, shoving, slapping, or any personal attack causing injury to a person's body. (See Reference 1)

Sexual

• Forced sexual encounters with a partner are considered sexual abuse. It is used to dominate a person into submission, and is an act of violence. (See Reference 1)

Emotional and Psychological

• The continual degradation of a person or threats of harm constitutes emotional and/or psychological abuse. Often a partner will try to intimidate a victim by yelling or throwing things. (See Reference 1)

Help

• If you feel you are in immediate physical danger, call 911. You can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). (See Resource 1)