/Portals/2/logos/__TFMF_yuifgu45gj5nayzf5o4frv45_e5b971c3-0a08-4cdf-963d-ff9a578ac3b4_0___Selected.jpg en-us Copyright 2008 - All Rights Reserved. Tue, 21 May 2013 10:56:24 GMT 15 By Breanna Acton
Domestic violence is something that each student has either faced themselves or someone they know has, whether it is a friend, classmate, or family member. The abuse can come in many forms. It may be physical (hitting, slapping, punching etc.), verbal (name-calling, harassment, etc.), or sexual (unwanted touching, talking inappropriately, etc.) Teens that are exposed to violence, especially at home, are more likely to become depressed or homeless. Sophomore Robyn Neill believes, “Domestic violence is a family setting problem, and when it involves a child, then the child becomes the top priority in the dangerous situation. It’s wrong for a human being to hit another human being. If it’s how they are releasing their anger, then they need to find another way of doing so.” The physical results of violence are much more harrowing. The violence and abuse can be downright devastating and sometimes even fatal. Medical bills for victims of domestic violence reach $3 to $5 billion a year in the United States. Did you know that more than one in four incidents of domestic violence involves weapons? The aftermath of the terrible injuries are not only possibly physically scarring but also emotionally scarring. Domestic violence is a cycle. In most cases, the abuser was once a person who was abused themselves; they have just ended up repeating the same cycle that has gone on from generation to generation. Many negative actions can fuel violence. Alcohol, drugs, and stress can make a person suddenly become extremely angry and violent. Librarian Gail West believes that “Domestic violence is something that most families try to hide. There is no cure for it, but if families grasp the danger of the dire situation, then the family can become healed once more and the cycle can be broken.” If someone you love or are close to is being hurt, physically, verbally, or sexually, he or she needs to get help because the situation could turn tragic. Have them talk to a counselor, police officer, or call a domestic violence shelter. It may save their life, their family’s lives, and help break the scary situation of domestic abuse. ]]> Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:46:09 GMT