- Many myths exist around domestic violence and around the woman who experience battering and/or abuse in her own home.
- Most of these myths blame the woman for the violence which is perpetrated against her.
- Most myths also trivialize the seriousness and the effects of the experience.
Myth........ It's just the odd domestic tiff
Fact......... 25% of all reported crime involves domestic abuse. As many as 40% of all women have experienced abuse in a close relationship.
Myth........ She must ask for it or deserve it..........
Fact......... This so called 'provocation' often involves no more than asking for money for food or not having a meal ready on time.
Myth........ Alcohol causes battering...........
Fact......... Alcohol does not or cannot make a man abuse. Some men may have been drinking when they are violent, but drink is an easy excuse. Many men who are violent do not drink.
Myth........ Nobody has the right to interfere in the domestic affairs of a man and woman.
Fact......... Domestic violence is a social problem, not a private affair. The abuse of any human being by another is everyone's business.
Myth........ Domestic Violence only happens in working class areas.
Fact......... It is clear that domestic abuse happens in all social backgrounds, ages, race and lifestyles. Support agencies regularly help wives or partners of judges, teachers, doctors, politicians and businessmen.
Myth........ All men who are violent to women come from an abusive family background.
Fact......... Many men who abuse women do not come from violent backgrounds and other men who do come from an abusive background do not abuse women. They choose to deal with their problems in a non-violent and constructive way.
Myth........ Leaving the home is bad for the children.
Fact......... All research shows that children are more damaged by remaining in a violent situation than by leaving to go to a secure and safe environment. The physically and mental/emotional health of children actually improves and blossoms during and after time spent out of an abusive home.
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