We’re winding down my month long series of Domestic Violence Awareness Month💜 and I feel like it’s time to have another important conversation around this taboo topic. Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is a widespread issue that impacts individuals and families globally.
Despite the growing awareness and efforts to tackle this problem, there’s still many misconceptions from society that need clarification. These misconceptions lead to harmful stereotypes, making it harder for survivors to speak out and set back effective intervention strategies. In this blog post, I’m debunking some of the most common myths & misconceptions about domestic violence. Let’s jump right in.
Myth #1: Domestic Violence Only Involves Physical Abuse
Many people tend to think that domestic violence only means physical harm, like a black eye or broken rib. That’s not the full picture. While physical abuse is a big part of it, domestic violence can take many other forms too. It can show up as emotional pain, psychological torment, financial control, or even sexual abuse. These non-physical types of abuse can be incredibly hurtful, sometimes even more so than physical violence. Emotional abuse might not leave visible wounds, but they have a profound impact on a survivor’s mental health.
Myth #2: Domestic Violence Only Happens in Certain Socioeconomic Groups
Another common myth is that domestic violence only happens to certain people, which couldn’t be farther from the truth. While it’s true that certain groups of people can experience higher rates of DV, it can happen to anyone. Regardless of their age, gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic status, 1 in 3 women will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. If you haven’t personally experienced it, you know someone who has. It’s vital to understand that anyone can find themselves in an abusive situation, and anyone can be an abuser.
Myth #3: Domestic Violence Victims Can Easily Leave Their Abusers
Society thinks that victims of domestic violence can just leave their abusive partners whenever they want. The truth is, leaving an abusive relationship can be an incredibly complex and dangerous process. Abusers often use tactics like isolation, financial control, or threats of harm to keep victims trapped. Often times, the abuse can get worse or even deadly when the victim decides to leave the relationship. Leaving can also be especially challenging if there are children involved. Victims might worry not just for their own safety but also for their children’s well-being, making leaving a complicated process. Check out this blog post that addresses other reasons why it’s difficult to leave an abusive relationship.
Myth #4: Domestic Violence Only Happens in Cisgender Heterosexual Relationships
The domestic violence awareness movement has mainly concentrated on cisgender heterosexual relationships, often overlooking the LGBTQ+ community. Research highlights that LGBTQ+ individuals face domestic violence at similar or even higher rates compared to their heterosexual counterparts. LGBTQ+ people can often face unique challenges when seeking help, like discrimination or a lack of understanding from service providers.
Myth #5: Domestic Violence is a Private Matter
Some people believe that what happens behind closed doors should stay there, and no one else should get involved. This mindset keeps victims silent and give abusers a free pass to keep doing harm. Domestic violence is a societal issue that requires a collective response. Encouraging survivors to reach out for help and raising awareness about domestic violence are essential steps in addressing this problem. Remember this quote: “silence hides violence.”
Myth #6: Domestic Violence is a One-Time Incident
Another misconception is that domestic violence is a one-time occurrence. In many cases, domestic violence is a pattern of behavior that escalates. It might begin with subtle signs of control and manipulation and then turn into more obvious abuse. Recognizing these early signs and intervening can help prevent further abuse. Please remember this, especially to my women reading this… if they’ve done it to you before, they will do it again.
Myth #7: Domestic Violence Only Affects Adults
Domestic violence can have severe consequences for children who witness or experience it. Growing up in a household with domestic violence can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects on children. It’s not an issue that only affects adults; it can have a profound impact on families as a whole.
The Bottom Line
Debunking myths and misconceptions about domestic violence is an essential step in raising awareness, providing support to survivors, and preventing future incidents. Domestic violence takes many forms, can happen to anyone, and isn’t a private matter. By dispelling these myths, we can create a more compassionate and informed society who can support those affected by it. Domestic violence is not just a problem for survivors; it is a societal problem that needs all of us to step up and take action.
Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for confidential support.
For free resources around domestic violence, CLICK HERE for podcast episodes featuring different survivor stories!
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