Domestic Violence - MYTHS

Domestic Violence only happens on council estates
There are no social barriers with domestic violence. Victims of domestic violence come from all social and economic backgrounds. However, statistics show that domestic violence is under reported amongst victims from a more affluent or professional background.

Domestic Violence is only perpetrated by strong men against weak women
Domestic violence can happen between any current or former intimate relationship where there is an imbalance of power, and/or where one wishes to exercise control over the other.

It's alcohol that makes men violent
Alcohol and drugs can be a contributing factor to domestic violence, but is not the cause of it. By blaming alcohol, the abuser is making an excuse for the actions and not taking responsibility; those caught drink driving are held accountable for their actions. Many who do not drink still abuse.

Abused women must have done something to deserve it
No one deserves to be abused, especially by someone they are, or have been, close to. Provocation of such violence can be merely in the form of not having dinner ready when requested. Those women who resist the violence often find that their injuries are more severe, however submission should not be seen to their consent to the violence.

Abusers were abused themselves
Whilst some abusers may come from an abusive background, there is no conclusive evidence to show that those who abuse were abused themselves, or that those who witness domestic violence go onto abuse in the future.

If children don't see the violence they're ok
It is important not to underestimate the impact of domestic violence on children. 90% of children are in the next room when the violence is going on. Even if they do not directly witness the violence, they can still be affected.