Victims of domestic violence often must wrestle with feelings of fear, loyalty, guilt and shame. Because victims are often socially and geographically isolated, as well as financially dependent, many victims live out their lives in fear, unaware that help is available. Today, as more and more communities are responding to the special needs of these victims, more and more victims are reaching out. Many communities now have shelters where victims and their children can go to escape the violence, vocational programs to provide victims with the skills to make it on their own, and concerned persons ready to help with emotional support and understanding. In Washington State, the Domestic Violence Hotline brings victims and these services together.
Violence is really only an isolated event.
There isn't much of it happening. One out of every 15 relationships are right now experiencing the sort of violence that will send the victim to the hospital. In particular, over her lifetime a woman has about an even chance of being beaten up. Domestic violence only happens to poor people or minorities. Abuse happens in every sort of family, regardless of race, economic background or educational level.