Domestic Violence Sourcebook

Basic Consumer Health Information about Warning Signs, Risk Factors, and Health Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence, Sexual Violence and Rape, Stalking, Human Trafficking, Child Maltreatment, Teen Dating Violence, and Elder Abuse

Domestic violence affects people of all ages, and victims include people from every race, ethnicity, religion, and economic situation. Abusers seek to control victims with physical and sexual assault, verbal attacks, threats, isolation, and constant monitoring. To help stop the violence, many communities have instituted a variety of services including education, crisis counseling, safe shelters, legal counsel, financial assistance, and children's aid. While such interventions can help reduce intimate partner violence, elder abuse, and teen dating abuse, many victims may feel powerless and be unaware of how to find the help they need. Furthermore, people who have been abused can experience long-term physical and mental health problems.

Domestic Violence Sourcebook, Third Edition provides updated information about the physical, mental, and social effects of violence experienced by intimate partners, parents, children, teens, and elderly adults. Facts about types of abuse, such as rape and other sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking, are included, along with information about domestic violence prevention. Guidelines for emergency intervention, safety plans, and identity protection are offered, and facts about financial and legal assistance for victims are provided. The Sourcebook concludes with a glossary of related terms and directories of additional resources for families and advocates of people experiencing domestic violence.