Victims of domestic abuse urged to take action
February 08, 2010
AN EXPLOSIVE temper, a history of violence and a controlling personality are three of the clearest warning signals for domestic disputes.
Several clinical psychologists interviewed by The Gleaner warned that people should acknowledge these signs early and not be afraid to speak up.
"Don't lie about it, be honest with yourself and speak up. Silence is a feeder for abuse," said clinical psychologist Georgia Rose, MSc.
"Acknowledge that the problem is there and that it is serious and enduring, because it's gonna be there tomorrow, no matter how he cries and apologies and buys flowers, it is going to happen again," said psychologist Karen Richards.
Police statistics show that 197 persons were killed in domestic violence between 2007 and last year. A breakdown shows that 65 were killed last year, 61 in 2008 and 71 the previous year.
Another important sign, according to psychologist Doneisha Burke, is a deterioration in the quality of the relationship, which leads to frequent quarrels over simple things.
"There is frustration because of a lack of communication. So because of this, you have arguments about financial problems, especially in this recession period, and people might turn to substances such as alcohol, which impairs their judgement," Burke said.
All three psychologists agreed that paying attention to the signs are important because, as Richards explained, domestic disputes do not happen in isolation.
"Someone may be verbally abusive at first, then they become emotionally abusive, then it leads to sexual abuse and people are forced into things they did not consent to," she said.
In addition, Richards said people with a history of domestic violence or people who are unable to control angry outbursts are almost certain to relapse....
Author: Livern Barrett
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
