Chapter 1
Domestic Violence

Overview of Course

The following chapters contain relevant information to increase awareness of the epic proportions domestic violence has reached.  These chapters will advise professionals in the medical community what they can do to recognize the signs, how to document and report if incidents of domestic violence are suspected.

Overview of Domestic Violence

Domestic abuse — also called domestic violence, intimate partner violence (IPV) or battering — occurs between people in intimate relationships. It takes many forms, including coercion, threats, intimidation, isolation, and emotional, sexual and physical abuse (http://www.mayoclinic.com; Domestic Help is Available).

The issue of domestic violence has become increasingly more apparent over the past several years. This is a health problem that has reached epidemic proportions. It faces not only women, but also children and the elderly. Though there are no typical victims of domestic abuse, abusive relationships do share similar characteristics. In all cases, the abuser aims to have power and control over his partner. (http://www.mayoclinic.com; Domestic Help is Available).

Most states, including the state of Florida, have improved the laws dealing with domestic violence, in particular the responsibilities of physicians treating victims. The law has recognized that domestic violence is a crime and safety for victims must be a priority. With child and elder abuse, the laws are very similar. Any physician "who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect" that a child or elderly person is abused must report this fact to the Department of Heath and Rehabilitative Services. However, in instances of spousal abuse, there must be actual knowledge of the violence (as opposed to suspicion) by the physician. They must be treating the wound resulting from the violence and may not report a wound discovered during treatment for another ailment.

Recognizing/Identifying Domestic Violence Actions

When spouses, intimate partners, or dates use physical violence, threats, emotional abuse, harassment, or stalking to control the behavior of their partners, they are committing domestic violence. Physical violence includes putting your hands on a person against their will. It also includes shoving, pushing, grabbing, pulling, or forcing some one to stay somewhere. Regardless of the relationship between two people, using physical violence against someone is a crime.

There are no typical characteristics or profiles of abusers or victims. Abusers may appear very charming or may seem like explosive or angry individuals. Victims may seem extremely frightened or passive or may be quite angry about what is happening. Rather than determining whether someone fits a "type," determine whether the warning signs of abuse exist.

Basic warning signs might include:

 A physician may be the first non-family member to whom an abused person will turn to for help, and the physician has the responsibility to intervene. By recognizing and treating the effects of abuse, reporting the abuse, and by providing referrals for shelter and counseling, physicians can be primary helpers of victims of domestic violence.

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