Statistics have shown that spousal violence cuts across all ages, races, religions, occupational and educational background. There are people who drink or abuse drugs but do not become violent. Alcohol or drugs should not be an excuse for abusive behaviour. An abuser may be extremely violent at home but usually appears reasonable and respectable outside the family. Abusers do not look any different from your neighbour, colleague, boss, friend or acquaintance.
Abused victims are often isolated and dependent on their partners financially and emotionally.
They are fearful and lack self-confidence to break away from the violence. They feel helpless, confused, anxious and suffer low self-esteem. Some may have suicidal tendencies. In severe cases, the victims are beaten to death. If children are directly involved or are witnesses to the violent behaviour of their parents, there are undesirable psychological effects on them.