Myth
Battering is a family matter and the community should not interfere in family matters.
Reality
Assault is assault, rape is rape, murder is murder, regardless of the relationship between the people. Violence within the family is just as unjustifiable as violence outside the family.
Myth
Low income, uneducated and people of color are battered more frequently than Anglos.
Reality
Most previously recorded statistics have come from public agencies, city hospitals, police departments, social service agencies and the courts. Since middle and upper class people often have other options open to them, they are less likely to seek assistance from such agencies. As a result, statistics have distorted the reality that domestic violence cuts across all races, all social, economic and ethnic groups.
Myth
It can't be that bad, or the victim would just get up and leave.
Reality
The decision to leave a person who provides the sole or primary means of support is not a simple matter. The realities of having no place to go and no means of survival are very harsh. In addition, the victim must also cope with feelings about what has been suffered and the very real fear of further violence as well as harassment if the relationship is terminated.
Myth
Boys from violent homes will grow up to be batterers, girls to be victims, and battered women tend to be batterers of their children.
Reality
There is no evidence that battered women are more likely to abuse their children than women who have not been battered. Additionally, women may also be the batterers in relationships or become violent in response to battering.
Myth
Battering affects only a small percentage of the population.
Reality
Two to four million people of all races and classes are beaten every year. |
