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Definition of Domestic Violence

 

Domestic Violence Information Sheet Patterns of Abuse How to Leave an Abusive Partner Victims of Stalking/Harassment

Domestic Violence

is defined as any use of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, in an intimate relationship. It may include a single act of violence, or a number of acts forming a pattern of abuse through the use of assaultive and controlling behavior. The pattern of abuse may include:

Intimate Relationship is defined as between opposite-sex or same-sex partners. These relationships vary in duration and legal formality, and include:

Domestic violence is also commonly referred to as:

 

Domestic Violence Information Sheet

 

Children Are Affected by Family Violence and Might:

Internalize by: Hyperactive or lethargic behaviour, being overly sensitive, have poor concentration, withdraw into self, be depressed, feel sad, feel unworthy, blame self for family problems, be very compliant, get good grades, suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, have stomach aches/headaches/sleep problems, have anxiety or panic attacks, have trouble keeping or getting along with friends, have self destructive thoughts or actions.

Externalize by: Physical or verbally aggressive, complain of pains when moving or being touched, have difficulty getting along with others, insensitive to others, easily distractible, hyper, feel angry most of the time, feel rage, brag excessively, blame others, ADD/ADHD, Conduct Disorder, Post traumatic Stress Disorder

 

What You Can Do?

As a Victim: Remember you are not alone, that it is not your fault, you should talk to someone you trust, find help and advise in your community

As an outsider: Listen to the victim, believe the victim, support them, inform them of available services in their community and hotlines, report suspected child abuse or neglect to a child welfare agency.

 

Help is Available

DIAL 911 if you are in imediate danger.

Call 310-1818 for 24hr support. 

Leduc & District Victim Services - 780-980-7232

Why does violence happen? People are not "born angry". Violent behavior is often modeled for us within our family, our community or through the media. Violence does NOT usually occur because of a lack of caring. It is often the result of feeling out of control. Violence becomes a way of regaining some control.

Can it be stopped? Family violence can become a way fo life, but the pattern can be broken. It need NOT reach the point where the police, children services or the justice system have to become involved. Learn a healthier way to share the worries, anger and joy of being a family.

 

Support Services in your Community:

24 hour Distress Line 780-310-1818
Crisis Management Help Line 1-800-779-5057
Support Network Distress Line 780-482-4357
Mental Health 780-482-0222
Alberta Council of Women's Shelters 780-456-7000
Seniors Abuse Help Line 780-454-8888
Sex Assault Centre of Edmonton 780-423-4121
Saffron Sex Assault Centre 780-423-4121

www.violetnet.org www.child.gov.ab.ca

Leduc and District Victim Services has an extensive amount of information in regard to all types of abuse, safety plans and personal security. Our services and resources are confidential and free of charge. For inquiries call our office Mon - Fri between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The Patterns of Abuse

Physical abuse may follow verbal abuse, especially if you defend yourself. You may be confused as to what to do since they often apologize for their behavior and promise never to hurt you again. Though enjoyable, these honeymoon-like periods of remorse don't last long because your partner is an emotionally disturbed person attempting to act normally. You will eventually be forced to make some very serious decisions when it becomes obvious they are simply unable or unwilling to control themselves.

You must honestly judge the future of your relationship, bearing in mind your partner is convinced their feelings, words, and actions are justified. They likely believe your relationship would run smoothly if you let them take charge of your life.
Your partner's words and actions are strongly influenced by powerful emotions over which they have little control.

Such people often abuse alcohol and drugs, have very serious personality problems, and have witnessed violence in their early years. As they may have been a victim of abuse as well, change is unlikely unless they obtain counseling to address these issues. Though they need to be encouraged to move in this direction, you may be the last person they will listen to. They may even feel compelled to do the opposite of what is being asked regardless of the consequences.

 

How to Leave an Abusive Partner

Most of us prefer to love and be loved within a relationship. Sadly, our need for affection, friendship and security can cloud our judgment when abuse has crept into the relationship.

Leaving Safely

It's time to think about these questions. Your escape plan will depend on the answers.

After You Leave

After you have left, don't allow yourself to be manipulated by expressions of affection without concrete actions. Your leaving may persuade the person to take responsibility for their conduct. If you see consistent change and believe there is hope, have them arrange individual or marital counselling. Practice birth-control strictly if you can, as you may surrender to physical desires and loneliness.

Ending relationships, even abusive ones, has serious emotional consequences. Join a support group if available. Since abuse damages self-esteem you may have come to believe your situation is hopeless, and escape impossible. With support and consistent effort you are capable of building a bridge over the gap separating you from the life you deserve.

 

Tips for victims of Stalking, Harassment and/or Domestic Violence

When you leave or if you do not live together

If you stay and he/she leaves

Incident and Behaviour Log

Leduc Protective Services Building
(Leduc RCMP Detachment)
#1, 4119 50th Street
Leduc, Alberta T9E 7L9

CALL THE VICTIM SERVICES

OFFICE AT (780) 980-7232

MONDAY - FRIDAY:

8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

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