According to the Mary Ellen myth, she was rescued as an abused animal. Although not an accurate story, it suggests a link between the problems of animal cruelty and family violence. It is not uncommon for abusers to use threats of harm to pets or actual violence toward pets as a means of control and psychological abuse of family members. Model campus programs to combat domestic violence . Yet woman abuse is known to be common among young couples, pregnant women, families under stress, and families isolated from social supports.
Cultural issues are very important for understanding family violence and for intervention.
You might consider issues around a specific minority group such as Native Americans, Latinos, etc. Intervention issues for gay or lesbian partner abuse would be another important area to explore. Corporations and Family Violence. A community coordinated response to family violence requires involvement of all sectors of the community, including the business community. Review the literature on innovative projects in various corporations.