Summer Feature
Know the Signs of Domestic & Sexual Violence
Like the sun’s harmful UV rays, damage from domestic & sexual violence is not always immediately visible. Are you unsure if you, or someone you know, is involved in an abusive relationship? Check out warning signs below.
Remember, help is a phone call away: 1-800-323-HOPE (4673).
| CONTROL & INTIMIDATION | SEXUAL COERCION | PHYSICAL SIGNS OF ABUSE | KNOW THE CYCLE OF ABUSE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits your access to money. | Forces you to have sex, or perform sex acts, against your will. | Does your friend frequently miss work or cancel plans at the last minute? | Stage 1: "The Honeymoon Phase" - relationship is strong and no abuse is taking place |
| Constantly calls, texts or checks on you / your whereabouts. | Makes you feel as if sex is "owed" --because you're married or in a relationship. | Does your friend have unexplained - or far-fetched explanations for - bruises or injuries? | Stage 2: Tension Builds - verbal abuse begins, victim tries to please abuser but tension continues to build |
| Keeps you away from your friends and family. | Makes you afraid to say "no" to sex (fear of retribution / abuse). | Does your friend have prolonged bouts of anxiety, stress, fear or depression? | Stage 3: Incident of Physical Abuse Occurs |
| Belittles you, yells at you, or puts you down. | Relentlessly asks for sex / Badgers until you consent. | Does your friend abuse drugs or alcohol? | Stage 4: Abuser apologizes, expresses guilt or makes excuses for bad behavior |
| Makes you feel scared, anxious or uneasy when they're around. |
Summer Safety Series
Listen to our WMRC Radio Round Table on Summer Safety!
Air date: Friday, June 26
Online Safety
That’s Not Cool.com: A crowd-source platform that encourages teens to take an active roll in “raising awareness on an issue that affects friends, family and the community at large.
NetSmartz.org: Provides tips, discussion starters and videos to help parents understand a host of technology-related safety risks facing their children.
Travel Safety
The National Domestic Violence Hotline: Offers a concise two-part series on how to stay safe while traveling. The articles cover everything from logistical safety to resources you can utilize while traveling abroad.