Domestic violence expert teaches how to spot warning signs of abuse

ABC News
24 Sept 202106:29
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRThe video script discusses the issue of domestic violence, using the Gabby Petito case as an example. It highlights that nearly 20 people per minute in the United States are physically abused by an intimate partner. The conversation features Kirsten Stewart, the director of Futures Without Violence, who provides guidance on recognizing signs of domestic violence and the importance of offering support without blame or shame. She emphasizes the role of the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the need for law enforcement to be trained to handle such situations sensitively. Stewart also stresses the importance of developing a safety plan for potential victims, which can be facilitated by a domestic violence advocate. The video concludes with a reminder that anyone can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline for help, regardless of gender.

Takeaways
  • 🚨 The Gabby Petito case highlights the issue of violence against women and raises awareness about domestic violence.
  • ⏰ On average, nearly 20 people per minute in the United States are physically abused by an intimate partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
  • 👀 Key signs of an abusive relationship include changes in behavior, fear of a partner, unexplained injuries, and a shift from exuberance to quietness.
  • 🗣️ If you suspect domestic violence, approach the person in a non-confrontational manner, offering support and resources without placing blame or shame.
  • 👮‍♂️ In cases of suspected domestic violence, it's important to follow the lead of the person who appears to be the victim and avoid escalating the situation.
  • 📹 The police have been trained to handle domestic violence cases more effectively due to the Violence Against Women Act, though practices may vary.
  • 🤝 Ideally, a domestic violence advocate should be present during police calls to provide support and conduct a private conversation with the victim.
  • 🧳 A safety plan is crucial for those considering leaving an abusive relationship, which can include having a go bag with essentials like important documents and medicines.
  • 📞 The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) is a valuable resource for victims, friends, and family members seeking help or information.
  • 🏠 Leaving an abusive relationship can be the most dangerous time for a victim, so planning and having a support network is vital.
  • 🤔 Many victims choose to stay in abusive relationships due to various factors, and it's important to understand their reasons without judgment.
Q & A

  • What is the average number of people physically abused by an intimate partner per minute in the United States according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence?

    -Nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States.

  • What is one of the key factors to look for when identifying potential domestic violence situations?

    -A change in behavior, such as someone who is usually enthusiastic becoming very quiet or shy, or signs of physical abuse like unexplained bruises or cuts.

  • What is the recommended approach when you are concerned about someone experiencing domestic violence?

    -Find a quiet time to talk to the person, offer support without blaming or shaming them, and make yourself available for a conversation.

  • How can one differentiate between a couple having an argument and a potentially dangerous domestic violence situation?

    -Take cues from the person who seems to be the victim, look for signs of fear or avoidance, and remember that the person taking blame may not be the one causing harm.

  • What is the role of a domestic violence advocate in a police call for domestic violence?

    -A domestic violence advocate can take the victim aside, have a conversation, and help de-escalate the situation, providing support and resources.

  • What steps should the police take when responding to a domestic violence call?

    -Police should de-escalate the situation, question the people separately, and pay attention to the needs of any children in the home, ensuring their trauma is also addressed.

  • What is the importance of having a safety plan for someone experiencing domestic violence?

    -A safety plan helps the person identify a safe place to go, locate important documents and medicines, and prepare a 'go bag' for a quick escape if necessary.

  • What resources are available for someone seeking help with domestic violence?

    -Domestic violence agencies across the country, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE), and reaching out to friends, family, faith leaders, or healthcare providers.

  • What is the first step most people take when they need help with domestic violence?

    -Most people first reach out to friends or family, or talk to their healthcare providers or faith leaders.

  • What is the National Domestic Violence Hotline number and what other methods can be used to contact them?

    -The hotline number is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). They can also be contacted via email, phone, or chat.

  • What is the role of a healthcare provider in helping someone experiencing domestic violence?

    -Healthcare providers can offer privacy to discuss the situation and its health consequences, and they can be a valuable resource for advice and options.

  • Why is it important to address the needs of children in a domestic violence situation?

    -Children can also be deeply affected by the violence and it's important to ensure they have someone to talk to and that their trauma is acknowledged and addressed.

Outlines
00:00
😔 Understanding Domestic Violence and How to Respond

The first paragraph discusses the Gabby Petito case as an example of violence against women and provides statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, highlighting that nearly 20 people per minute in the United States are physically abused by an intimate partner. The speaker, Kirsten Stewart, the director of Futures Without Violence, offers guidance on identifying abusive relationships and the signs to look for, such as changes in behavior, fear, or unexplained injuries. She advises on how to approach a person one might be concerned about, emphasizing the importance of not escalating violence and offering resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The conversation also touches on how to differentiate between dangerous situations and common arguments, the role of law enforcement in helping victims, and the importance of safety planning when considering leaving an abusive relationship.

05:01
📞 Seeking Help for Domestic Violence

The second paragraph emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help when facing domestic violence. It mentions that most individuals first confide in friends, family, or health care providers before involving the police. The paragraph underscores the value of speaking with a domestic violence advocate who can help a victim or someone concerned about domestic violence to develop a safety plan tailored to their specific situation. This includes identifying a safe place to go, knowing the location of essential items like car keys, and having a 'go bag' prepared with important documents and medicines. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is highlighted as a resource that can be accessed via phone, email, or chat, offering support and guidance to those affected by domestic violence, regardless of their readiness to leave the relationship.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Domestic Violence
Domestic violence refers to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse between individuals in an intimate relationship. In the video, it is the central theme, with the Gabby Petito case serving as a poignant example. The discussion emphasizes the prevalence of domestic violence, with the statistic that nearly 20 people per minute in the United States experience physical abuse by an intimate partner.
💡National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence is an organization dedicated to advocating for victims of domestic violence and working to end such violence. In the context of the video, it is cited as a source for the alarming statistic about domestic violence in the U.S., highlighting its role in raising awareness and providing data on the issue.
💡Behavior Change
Behavior change refers to a shift in an individual's actions or demeanor that may indicate an underlying issue. In the video, it is mentioned as a key factor to look for in identifying potential domestic violence situations. For instance, a person who is usually exuberant becoming quiet or shy could be a sign of an abusive relationship.
💡Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves the use of physical force or violence against another person. It is a form of domestic violence and is discussed in the video as a common and serious concern. The script mentions visible signs like bruises or cuts that can't be explained, which may indicate physical abuse.
💡Futures Without Violence
Futures Without Violence is an organization focused on preventing and ending violence against women and children. In the video, Kirsten Stewart, the director of the organization, provides guidance on how to identify domestic violence and what steps to take. The organization's role is to offer resources and support to those affected by violence.
💡Safety Plan
A safety plan is a personalized, practical strategy that victims of domestic violence can follow to enhance their safety, whether they remain in or leave an abusive relationship. The video emphasizes the importance of developing a safety plan with the help of a domestic violence advocate, which may include knowing the location of important documents and an emergency 'go bag'.
💡National Domestic Violence Hotline
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is a vital resource that provides support, information, and assistance to victims of domestic violence or those seeking help for someone they know. The video script provides the hotline's contact information, emphasizing its role as a first point of contact for individuals in need.
💡De-escalation
De-escalation is the process of calming a situation to prevent it from becoming more violent or aggressive. In the context of the video, it is suggested as a best practice for law enforcement when responding to domestic violence calls, aiming to reduce the risk of further harm to the victim.
💡Victims and Survivors
Victims and survivors are terms used to describe individuals who have experienced domestic violence. The video discusses the importance of providing help and resources to these individuals, recognizing their courage and resilience in dealing with the aftermath of abuse.
💡Intimate Partner
An intimate partner refers to a person with whom one has a close, romantic, or sexual relationship. The video script uses this term to highlight that domestic violence can occur within such relationships, emphasizing that abuse is not limited to any particular demographic or type of relationship.
💡Trauma
Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that may have long-lasting emotional effects. In the video, trauma is discussed in relation to both adult victims of domestic violence and children who may witness such violence. The importance of addressing and acknowledging this trauma is emphasized as a critical aspect of recovery and support.
Highlights

The Gabby Petito case is an example of violence against women, highlighting the need for awareness and action.

Statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reveal that nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the U.S.

Kirsten Stewart, Director of Futures Without Violence, provides guidance on identifying domestic violence and how to respond.

Key factors to look for in potentially abusive relationships include changes in behavior, fear of a partner, and unexplained injuries.

If concerned about someone, it's important to approach them privately without blame or shame to offer support.

In public situations, it's difficult to differentiate between a dangerous situation and a couple's argument; it's best to follow cues from the potentially victimized person.

Police departments have been trained to handle domestic violence situations, thanks to the Violence Against Women Act.

Ideal police response includes de-escalation, separation of parties, and attention to the needs of any children involved.

Victims often face the greatest danger when attempting to leave an abusive relationship.

Developing a safety plan with a domestic violence advocate is crucial for those considering leaving an abusive situation.

A safety plan includes identifying a safe place to go, knowing the location of important items like car keys, and having a 'go bag' prepared.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is a valuable resource available via phone, email, and chat for victims and concerned individuals.

Most people first reach out to friends, family, or health care providers when seeking help for domestic violence.

Health care providers are a particularly useful resource due to the privacy they can offer and their understanding of the health consequences of violence.

The first step for someone seeking help is often to talk to a domestic violence advocate, who can provide non-judgmental support and guidance.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline number is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and they can also be reached by texting START to 88788.

Transcripts

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Domestic ViolenceVictim SupportViolence PreventionSafety PlanningExpert AdviceKirsten StewartIntimate Partner AbuseFutures Without ViolencePublic AwarenessEmergency Resources