In 1985 the then Surgeon General Koop declared domestic violence a public health problem. Unfortunately, it seems to be an epidemic. In fact, physical violence occurs at home between family members more often than it occurs between any other group of individuals or in any other setting except war or riots. Battering has been identified as the single most common source of injury to women, more than car accidents, muggings and rapes by a stranger combined. The methods of abuse come in various forms.
Psychological abuse is frequently the most damaging over time.
Often the victim becomes more and more isolated from friends and family and even denied access to TV, radio or any outside influence. Consequently, the only reality the victim knows is what the abuser creates for them. Imagine being told how ugly, worthless, stupid, lazy, selfish and undesirable you are by your only source of information. Perhaps you're also coerced by threats about your welfare or immigration status or against other members of your family. Not only does this destroy your self esteem but it can also paralyze you from leaving the abusive relationship as you believe you have no where and no one else to go to.