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Indicators of Domestic
Violence
Now that you have learned what domestic violence is and how it affects
victims, how can you tell if someone you know is being abused? No two
victims share exactly the same experience or respond in exactly the same
way, but there are similarities from case to case. Learning to identify
these often subtle clues can help you save the life of a victim of domestic
violence.
The following is a list of things to listen and watch for in your clients:
| Behavioral Indicators |
The Victim
|
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| Physical Indicators | The
Victim
Has patches of hair missing Is bleeding below the scalp Is malnourished or dehydrated Shows signs of confinement - rope burns or marks around wrists Has an untreated medical condition Wears torn, stained, or bloody clothing Has burns, cuts, pinch marks, skin tears, lacerations, or puncture wounds Has unexplained bruises or welts Has bruises or welts in various stages of healing (indicating repeated abuse) Has injuries that dont match the explanation Has injuries that reflect the outline of the object used to inflict it - belt buckle, hand, etc. Has bruises on the underside of the arm - look for round fingertip marks Has spiral fractures or twisting injuries Has swollen ankles or eyes Has broken eyeglasses |
|
| Psychological Indicators | The
Victim
Flinches or draws away Has a change in appetite Exhibits fear when approached by spouse or caregiver Has a new onset of depression Talks about suicide Has anxiety, panic attacks Exhibits excessive passivity Expresses doubts about her sanity Seems reluctant to discuss home life Exhibits low self-esteem Seems resigned Is tearful Is afraid of being alone |
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| Social Indicators | The
Victim
Is isolated with no friends or family who drop by Is not given the opportunity to speak for themselves Lives in a home physically isolated from the community Does not know neighbors Has relatives who live far away Does not want you to leave |
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