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cannot access. But you can leave this site quickly by clicking the button below.
Myth: If a woman doesn't like it she can always leave.
Fact: Women who experience domestic violence face a range of barriers to leaving
the relationship. The most common group of domestic violence victims are those who
have dependent children & no independent financial status. These women face a future
of reduced income and difficulty finding accommodation. Also, the violence does
not necessarily stop after women leave, sometimes it can get worse. Research on homicide
victims shows that women who attempt to end their relationship are exposed to a relatively
high risk of homicide, with the period immediately after they leave associated with
particularly high risk.
Myth: Domestic violence only happens in low socioeconomic classes.
Fact: As many as 1 in 10 women are victims of domestic violence. In a phone-in survey
conducted by the University of South Australia in September 1998, callers ranged
across a wide age group, from 17 years to 70 years, and came from a broad range of
social backgrounds. A significant number of the women were well educated or had
well-paid jobs. Their male partners were also from diverse backgrounds and many
were financially well off and had good social standing in the community. Callers
came from both homes that spoke only English and where a language other than English
was used.
Myth: Alcohol causes domestic violence.
Fact: Much violence occurs without alcohol. Many people get drunk without becoming
violent. Alcohol is an excuse, not a cause. It may lower inhibitions. Remember
that the person who uses alcohol is responsible for their drinking and their abusive
behaviour. Your attitudes and values determine whether you use violence against
your family or not. In 50% of cases of violent behaviour, neither party has been
drinking. Perpetrators of violence have been violent under the influence of alcohol
and also while not under the influence of alcohol.
CONSIDER THIS: Society does not condone or accept drunken driving for an excuse for
damage caused while driving under the influence of alcohol.
"Breaking the Silence" 1997
Myth: Women who are victims of domestic violence deserve it. They must provoke
him/"push his buttons"/push him to the limit.
Fact: There is no excuse for violence and in any case, many women report being hit
from behind, and with no warning. If he feels his "buttons are pushed", he can choose
to walk away.
Myth: Men and women are equally violent in relationships.
Fact: 95-98% of victims of domestic violence are women. While men do experience
violence in their relationships, women are still much more likely to be victims of
violence in their relationships.
Reconciliation
DV State/Territory Contacts
