Who is Affected by Abuse?

Who is Affected by Abuse?

In short, statistics tell us that domestic and dating abuse is much more common than many people realize.  

While domestic abuse situations most commonly involve a woman who is being abused by her male partner,  a person of any gender can cause deliberate harm to a partner of any gender.  Domestic and dating abuse happens in all kinds of relationships, including both heterosexual and LGBTQ+ relationships. Some people who experience abuse are married, some are living with their partner and others are dating and don’t live together.  

Domestic abuse is a common reality in our society. It occurs in all social classes, ethnic groups, cultures and religions.  In fact, because it’s not something we talk about much in this country, most people don’t realize how common it is.

If your partner is mistreating, harassing, controlling or otherwise abusing you, please know that what is happening is not your fault and that you are not alone. There are local programs that can offer you support, assistance and information.  These programs can help you think through safety issues and give you information about things like housing and legal resources. 

Most of all, staff from these programs will ask you what you want to do and be there to listen and support you as you think about your options.