Monday Musings

The Power and Control Wheel explains the complex dynamics of Domestic Violence (Intimate Partner Violence). The following video helps describe the concepts: "Illustrations of the  power and control wheel   and the   post-separation power and control wheel   are particularly helpful tools in understanding the overall pattern of abusive and violent behaviors used by abusers to establish and maintain control over their partners both within and following a relationship. Very often, one or more violent incidents are accompanied by an array of these other types of abuse. They are less easily identified, yet firmly establish a pattern of intimidation and control in the relationship. As the wheels illustrate, abuse is cyclical. There are periods of time where things may be calmer, but those times are followed by a buildup of tension and abuse, which usually results in the abuser peaking with intensified abuse. The cycle then often starts to repeat, commonly becoming more and...

  As a survivor of Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Intimate Partner Violence, I am honored to have served on the Board of Directors of both   Hubbard House   (from 2007–2012) and   The Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County, Inc.   (from 2003–2007). Both organizations provide a number of services to individuals who are victims of domestic violence (Intimate Partner Violence). I am also proud to share my story in my new poetry book,  Family Treasons . Are you a victim of domestic violence? Find out more here  NCADV . If you are in immediate danger, call 9–1–1. For an o nymous, confidential help, 24/7, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1–800–799–7233 (SAFE) or 1–800–787–3224 (TTY).

  An abuser’s best friend is silence: the silent fear of the victim and the silence of those who could report. What is Domestic Violence [Intimate Partner Violence-IPV]? Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other  abusive behavior  as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically; however, the one constant component of domestic violence is one partner’s consistent efforts to maintain  power and control  over the other. [NCADV] Domestic Violence Statistics  are staggering. [NCADV]. For anonymous, confidential help available 24/7, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1–800–799–7233 (SAFE) or 1–800–787–3224 (TTY). I am a survivor!  Anyone can be a victim of child abuse, ...