Abuse is about power and control, not love.
Underlying all forms of abuse is the need for one person to control another. The need for control is the key issue. One person attempts to control another, physically, emotionally, and sexually.
Abuse is most often a learned behaviour. 75% of those who abuse, grew up witnessing abuse in their homes. Abusive behaviour is passed on from generation to generation and without professional intervention, will continue.
Facts About Abuse – Did You Know…
- 1 in 4 women (25%) in Saskatchewan is abused by the partner she lives with.
- Domestic Violence is the #1 cause of injury to women and accounts for more injuries than rape, muggings and auto accidents combined.
- A woman is 9 times more likely to be killed by her partner than by a stranger.
- Each year 24,000 children in Saskatchewan are witnessing abuse – domestic violence.
- People who abuse believe they have the right to have power and control over their partner. They usually blame their behavior on something or someone else. Their jobs may be too stressful, they are unemployed, their partner ‘provoked’ them. The most common excuse for spousal abuse is alcohol.