Crisis No
01382 202525
Text No
0797 172 7068 |
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Domestic abuse is most commonly perpetrated by men against women and takes a number of specific and identifiable forms. The existence of violence against men is not denied, nor is the existence of violence in same sex relationships, nor other forms of abuse, but domestic abuse requires a response which takes account of the gender-specific elements and the broader gender inequalities which women face.
In this context, the definition adopted is as follows:
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Definition
Domestic abuse (as gender-based abuse), can be perpetrated by partners or ex partners and can include:
- Physical Abuse (assault and physical attack involving a range of behaviour)
- Sexual Abuse (acts which degrade and humiliate women and are perpetrated against their will, including rape)
- Psychological and Emotional Abuse (such as threats, verbal abuse, racial abuse, withholding money and other types of controlling behaviour such as isolation from family and friends).
Domestic abuse occurs in all social groups, is not caused by stress, unemployment, poverty, alcohol or mental illness, nor by the women who experience the abuse.
Key facts (Scottish Executive) http://www.scotland.gov.uk
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- In the area of domestic abuse, 91 per cent of those who experience it - in police recorded incidents - are female, and 91 per cent of perpetrators are men.
- A survey has shown that at least one in five women experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives.
- It is difficult to know how many women suffer domestic abuse but research shows that it is widespread and under reported and that the level of repeat victimisation is high.
- Domestic abuse is associated with broader inequalities in society, is part of a range of behaviours constituting male abuse of power and is linked to other forms of violence such as rape and child abuse.
- It occurs in all social groups and is likely to escalate in frequency and intensity over time and may increase at specific points in a woman's life such as during pregnancy.
- It can be perpetrated by partners or ex-partners and can include physical abuse, sexual abuse and mental/emotional abuse. It is often witnessed by children who may themselves experience mental, physical and sexual abuse.
- The range of common effects of domestic abuse includes physical injury, poor health and a range of psychological difficulties. The effects on children must also be recognised including a range of forms of stress or fear, as well as the additional correlation between domestic abuse and child sexual abuse.
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Dundee Womens Aid
61 Reform Street
Dundee
DD1 1SP
Crisis Line 01382 202525
Text: 07971 727 068
Business/Fax: 01382 226390
Email: dwa@dundeewomensaid.co.uk
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