DOMESTIC VIOLENCE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS IN AMERICA
Domestic violence remains a well-kept secret in America. It is all around us and it is estimated that 74 % of the population in the US know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence (The Allstate Foundation, 2009). Family Violence is deeply rooted in US culture. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by a partner to gain or maintain power over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional economic or psychological actions or threats that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence). Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and educational levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together or dating.
Domestic violence against women and men is a widespread social problem in the United States and costs 8.3 billion dollars in expenses annually: a combination of higher medical costs (5.8 billion) and lost productivity (2.5 billion) (Forbes, Pharma & Healthcare, 2013). Nearly a quarter of women report domestic violence has affected their work performance at some point in their lives (Forbes, Pharma & Healthcare, 2013). Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has numerous effects on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and community (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)....