Domestic Violence Awareness in Fayetteville

Domestic violence is a touchy subject. Many of us feel uncomfortable talking about it or afraid to seek help. More than 136,000 people in 1orthwest Arkansas are affected by violence. 2ne of those 136,000 is a family member, neighbor, or friend who needs access to shelter, resources and advocacy.

The Arkansas coalition against domestic violence promotes for domestic peace. Since 1981, ACDV, a non-pro¿t organization, has served both rural and urban areas of Arkansas since. ACDV aims at strengthening existing support systems helping victims and their children. They do this by providing training for the public and those who work with victims and by aiming at developing legislation that provides legal protection to victims. Moreover, to promote public policies and funding for programs that work and meet the victims and their children.

According to an )BI study, one of the most under-reported crimes in the United States is domestic violence. Although both women and men can be victims of domestic violence, women, statistically, are more often the victims and men the perpetrators.

WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

The United States Department of -ustices of¿ce Violence Against Women de¿nes domestic abuse as, “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner.”

There are many forms of abuse. Physical abuse can include hitting, biting, slapping, battering, shoving, punching, pulling hair, burning, cutting, pinching, etc. Physical abuse also includes denying someone medical treatment and forcing drug/alcohol use on someone.

Where can you seek help?

There are many safe spaces for women and men who need saving from an abusive relationship. The 1orthwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter supports victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Peace at Home family shelter in )ayetteville also provides services for victims and their children. And for long-term help, domestic abuse therapists are available in the Washington County and Benton county.