There are many ways to support someone who is going through domestic violence. It is important to avoid criticizing the abuser and blaming the victim. It is also important to not intervene physically. The following are some tips that can help you support the survivor without becoming involved in the situation. Read on to learn more. In addition to avoiding verbal abuse, you can also stay away from criticism or blame.
Don’t criticize the abuser
When supporting a person going through domestic violence, don’t criticize the abuser. Criticizing the abuser implies that you are critical of the victim and their choice. Abusers may use this tactic to isolate their victims by telling them that no one likes them. This tactic may even convince the victim that the abuser is correct. However, it will likely only further distance them and make them less willing to reach out for support.
While you may not be able to stop an abuser from harming a victim, you can support them in getting help and change their behaviour. When supporting someone who is suffering from domestic violence, it is important to remember that the abuser’s actions have long lasting effects. Whether the victim is verbally abusive, physically abusive, or mentally abusive, the actions and words of others can encourage the abuser to change.
Be aware of the signs
When supporting someone who is going through domestic violence, it is important to understand the different types of abuse. One type of abuse is verbal. Verbal abuse occurs when one person shouts, threatens or otherwise controls the other person’s behaviour, thoughts, or feelings. It is not a healthy discussion between two equals. This kind of abuse is motivated by fear and doesn’t involve a discussion of what is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’.
Another type of abuse involves implying stupid things about the victim. The abuser may say that her hobby is a waste of time or that her hobbies are worthless. These comments can be hurtful, especially if the abuser feels insecure and doesn’t respect their boundaries. Be very careful not to make negative comments about the abuser when supporting someone going through domestic violence.
Do not blame the survivor
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to avoid blaming the survivor of domestic violence. While it can be tempting to blame the perpetrator of violence, this can cause more harm than good. Instead, try to offer support and guidance to the survivor. If possible, keep your own distance from the suspected abuser. When offering support, listen carefully and offer specific help. Do not blame the survivor for not speaking up.
It is common for women to fear bringing attention to the abuse because they believe no one will believe them. The reality, however, is that those who do report the abuse are less likely to be accused of false accusations than those who do not. That being said, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of domestic violence, and to help the victim get the best possible treatment. When someone accuses the survivor of causing their abuse, it’s important to not blame the victim if you don’t want to make her feel worse.
Do not intervene physically
If you are witnessing an act of domestic violence, do not intervene physically or threaten the person who is being abused. You should call the police and cooperate with them as best as possible, but if the violence is continuing, do not intervene physically. If the abuser is violent, do not attempt to interfere, as you may end up hurting him or her further. Upon contact of police, cooperate with the investigation, fill out a police report, and be prepared to testify in court. It is important to remember that most victims of domestic violence are not willing to cooperate or follow through with legal actions.
If you know a friend going through a domestic violence situation, consider being their friend and supporter. You can encourage them to make a safety plan and help them think through what they can do in case the abuser turns violent. You can help them come up with a list of emergency contacts, or even hide a suitcase with important items. If necessary, offer to store their suitcase at your home for them.
Do not put-down the abuser
If you see someone enduring abuse, it’s important to support them in any way you can. Try to believe the person you’re supporting without giving advice or pressure. Also, do not put-down the abuser. This could cause the person to become afraid to open up to you again. If you do intervene, be sure to respect the victim’s decisions. While confronting the abuser is never a good idea, being supportive is crucial.
Help your friend develop a safety plan, you can help find support services and compare movers if necessary. Make sure she has a list of places and people she can call such as counselling helplines if she needs to escape from the abuse. Encourage her to hide a suitcase with important items, like money, or offer to keep it at your home. Even if the abuser is violent, having a safety plan can empower victims of domestic violence to take action and leave.