By China Clark and Floyd Breham
Staff Writers
October is National Domestic Violence Prevention Month. Domestic violence effects everyone —young and old. It has no color and crosses into every socio-economic status. It’s a serious problem that can lead to death. Domestic violence isn’t just physically abuse, it’s also mental, emotional and verbal abuse.
Most recently, Ray Rice, a running back for the Baltimore Ravens, was charged with assault charges against his then fiancé and now wife, Janay. This situation was widespread and the video can be seen on any media outlet. The NFL indefinitely suspended Rice as a result of the incident. This suspension sends a strong message that domestic violence incidents will not be tolerated in the NFL.
Michele Follebout, EEVPA’s clinical therapist said some of the early signs of domestic violence are fear, controlling behavior, bad or unpredictable temper and jealousy. She said too often, people involved in abusive relationships don’t want to leave because of embarrassment, low self-esteem, love or infatuation or abandonment issues.
Domestic violence not only effects the two individuals involved, but also the people around that are exposed to it.
“Moreover due to the recent trend of reality television, social media and video games – Grand Theft Auto in particular, violence is the norm,” Follebout said.
If there are children involved, they are directly affected by it and will respond in various ways.
“Children may experience behavioral problems in school,” Follebout said “They may experience depression. They may be antisocial or hostile.”
Teens can experience domestic violence. Many teens are afraid to talk about their abuse because of the fear of being judged. They also don’t want the other person to get in trouble. They don’t want to tell their friend because they might judge them or tell someone. They might even tell the police.
“Don’t ignore the sign of domestic violence. Don’t be afraid to tell someone. No one deserves to be abuse. Get help, get out and take control of your life,” Follebout said.
