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What is Domestic Violence?

A pattern of coercive tactics that are used to gain and maintain power and control in an ongoing, familiar relationship.

Abuse Tactics

A pattern of coercive tactics that are used to gain and maintain power and control in an ongoing, familiar relationship.

What You Can Do If You Suspect Your Friend Is A Victim Of Abuse

Your friend will need to make their own decisions, but below are some suggestions on how you may help.

Do

  • Be gentle, but do be direct. Ask them if they are being abused. The victim might deny it, but at least they had the opportunity to talk.
  • Do leave the decision making to the victim. Don’t try to rescue them, but help them discover their own strengths and offer support.
  • Educate yourself about the problem of spouse abuse.
  • Let the victim know that there are alternatives. No one deserves to be abuse!
  • Tell them about the Personal Development Center.

Don't

  • Be judgemental.
  • Pry or Push. Be supportive and let them know you are willing to listen if they would like to talk about it.
  • Say, “Why don’t you just leave them?” The decision to stay or leave is not easy. Spouse abuse is a complex problem involving many issues.
  • Smother them with sympathy. That is disabling and may make them feel even less in control and capable.

A reporter of abuse has the right to remain anonymous.

Additional Information

Children of Domestic Violence

Facts

  • Domestic violence is devastating for children
  • Never the fault of children
  • Cannot be ended by children
  • Children are often unintended victims stuck in the middle of a situation beyond their control and understanding
  • When there is violence in the home, children do not develop and grow normally
  • Violence in your family has long-lasting and negative psychological, behavioral, and emotional effects

Parents Should Tell Their Children

  • Violence is never right, even when someone they love is being violent.
  • Neither you, nor they, are at fault or the cause of violence, and when anyone is being violent, it is important to stay safe.

Abuse in Late Life

Facts

  • Physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, or financial
  • Victims are 50 years of age or older
  • Often happens within a prior, ongoing, trusting relationship
  • The abuser can be a spouse/partner, adult child, grandchild, another family member or caregiver
  • Abuse may occur within the victim’s home or in a facility setting

Possible Signs of Abuse

  • Lack of food
  • Bruises or soiled clothing
  • Fearful or confusion
  • Isolation/loneliness
  • Unpaid bills

Women In Search of Empowerment (W.I.S.E.) Program

W.I.S.E. is an adult education and support group for women who share life experiences as they relate to abuse. General domestic abuse information, facilitated discussion, and participant concerns are addressed each session.

Topics Covered

  • Legal Issues
  • Financial Issues
  • Safety Issues
  • How to Handle Stress
  • AODA/Mental Health Information
  • Grief & Loss
  • Self-esteem
  • Conflict & Communication

Be informed: We provide displays at area events, as well as presentations to schools, businesses, and service organizations. If you would like to have a staff member attend your event or give a presentation, please contact us.

Helpful Links

Our Services

Marshfield Office

505 East Depot St.
Marshfield, WI 54449

Phone: (715) 384-2971
24 hr. Crisis Line: (715) 384-2971
Fax: (715) 384-7826

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment