Employers must be supportive of victims and co-workers who report threats. Victims should be referred to counselors who specialize in domestic violence. They should take great care to pay attention to warning signs of victims and perpetrators. They should let it be known that they are willing to take a stand against domestic violence, not only at work but in the community and homes of their employees. In other words, they must send a signal that domestic abuse will no longer be accepted by society.
Domestic violence falls into several categories.
Child abuse, spousal abuse, elder abuse, sibling abuse and dating violence are all considered domestic abuse. Signs of domestic abuse include a pattern of controlling, assaultive, manipulative or coercive behavior. This includes sexual or physical assault, mental and psychological attacks or manipulating or controlling finances, which results in suffering, fear, injury or death. Most cases of domestic abuse in the workplace are spousal or partner abuse. This is any behavior that is used to gain or maintain power and control within an intimate relationship.