Effects of Relationship and Family Violence
One in four women will be a victim of partner violence in her lifetime. One-third of female homicides are at the hands of a partner. Boys who witness relationship violence are twice as likely to abuse their partners. The witnessing of relationship violence during childhood is the strongest risk factor for partner violence among adults (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2010). These statistics indicate that relationship or family violence is an insidious issue, often resulting in a multigenerational transmittal of trauma. Not only is there the significant physical and emotional traumatic impact of relationship and family violence, but there are also a host of societal problems that occur as a result, including the legal, medical, social, and foster care systems.
For this Discussion, select an example of relationship or family violence from the media (past or present), a book, a movie, or history. Think about the short- and long-term effects on the survivor(s) in the example. Note any special intervention considerations you might need to take into account if treating the survivor(s).
Post a brief description of the example you selected that illustrates relationship or family violence. Explain the primary short-term and long-term effects of the violence on the survivor(s). Include some effects not mentioned in the resource material. Finally, explain any special intervention considerations you might need to take into account if treating the survivor(s).
Long-term effects include post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms such as nightmares or flashbacks related to her traumatic experiences; depression due to feelings of helplessness; chronic pain resulting from physical abuse; low self-esteem exacerbated by verbal abuse; distrust of men; difficulty forming intimate relationships; social isolation as a result of shame or embarrassment over what happened; and substance abuse as a means of coping with difficult emotions.
If treating this survivor, special intervention considerations might include finding ways for them to express their thoughts/feelings without judgement or criticism; providing gender-specific services if necessary (due to potential additional issues that may arise for female survivors); offering emotional support through therapy sessions so the survivor can begin processing their trauma in a safe environment where they are free from re experiencing it. Additionally, connecting them with resources such as women’s shelters or victim advocacy groups will help ensure their safety if needed and provide further support services if needed.