CHILDREN BY CHOICE ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

Domestic Violence

Approximately 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in an intimate relationship during the course of their life. Domestic violence includes not just physical abuse such as hitting, pushing or kicking, but also emotional abuse (name-calling and put downs), social abuse (denying contact with friends and family), financial abuse (refusing to give money or not making equal decisions regarding family expenditure) and spiritual abuse (not allowing someone to practice their chosen religion).

Pregnancy is a time of particularly heightened risk for women - nearly 42% of women who have experienced domestic violence indicate that the violence first occurred during pregnancy. Domestic violence during pregnancy increases the risks of miscarriage, foetal injury and early labour.

Domestic violence has long-lasting negative effects on women and their children. Some of these effects include depression, substance abuse, general ill health, injury, and sometimes death. Other effects for young children can consist of sleep disturbances or nightmares, bedwetting, withdrawal, aggression, poor school performance, increased anxieties, fear, and problems with social/emotional adjustment.

Domestic violence can also impact negatively on a person’s ability to parent effectively. For example, decisions may be constantly undermined, access to medical care may be difficult or patchy, there may be a lack of opportunity for normal social contact, and the provision of negative role models regarding relationships and parenting. Also, research has shown that children are more at risk for child abuse where domestic violence is present in the family.

If you think that you might be in a domestic violence situation, or even if you are not sure, there are organisations that you can talk to about your concerns. They can also provide assistance if you decide that you would like to leave.

DV Connect - Domestic and Family Violence Telephone Service Queensland
1800 811 811
Telephone crisis counselling, support services and information on available refuges.

Domestic Violence Resource Centre
Support, education, and counselling for women experiencing domestic violence.