Myths About DV

There are many myths floating around about domestic violence. We would like to dispel and shed some light on some of the more common myths.

Myth #1 Domestic violence only happens in poor, minority families...
Fact - Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It happens in families of all kinds - rich, poor, religious, urban, suburban, all over the nation, in all racial groups.

Myth #2 Women are just as violent as men.
Fact - According to data from the FBI and the Bureau of Justice statistics, at least 85% of victims are women. Other sources, such as California Sexual Assault Coaliton (CalCASA) indicate women are victims in 90% of cases. Most charges against women are a result of counter-charges filed by their partner or are acts of self-defense.

Myth #3 Battered women can always leave home.
Fact - Battered women stay in violent relationships for many reasons that include fear of reprisal, financial dependence, social isolation and shame.

Myth #4 Alcohol and drug abuse causes domestic violence.
Fact - Though alcohol and drugs can cause battering they do not cause domestic violence. Domestic violence is about power and control. Blaming alcohol and drugs can be an easy way to excuse abusive behavior.

Myth #5 Domestic violence is not common.
Fact - Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States; more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.

Myth #6 A woman can always leave home