1 Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence Partner Violence and the Workplace

2 Objectives Recognize partner violence as an issue affecting your workplace Understand some of the dynamics involved in partner violence Learn how to recognize the warning signs that indicate a co-worker might be in an abusive relationship and what you can do to help

3 Partner Violence Basics Partner violence is abusive behavior between two people in an intimate relationship Partner violence is an issue of CONTROL The highest risk factor for being involved with partner violence as an adult is exposure to violence between parents in your family of origin

4 Partner Violence Statistics Medical expenses from domestic violence total 3 to 5 billion dollars a year Businesses forfeit another $100 million a year in lost wages, absenteeism, sick leave, and non-productivity due to partner violence 94% of corporate security directors rank partner violence as a high security problem

5 Partner Violence Statistics (continued) 24-30% of abused working women lost their jobs due to their partner violence situation 75% of victims are harassed at work by their abuser 64% of battered women arrive an hour late for work an average of five times a month 37% of women involved in partner violence felt its impact in the workplace reflected in lateness, missed work, difficulty keeping a job, and difficulty advancing in their careers

6 Partner Violence Statistics (continued) Finally, there is lost productivity due to premature death— Homicide is the #1 leading cause of death on the job, and 20% of those were murdered by their intimate partner— AT THE WORKPLACE.

7 Why do people get into and stay in abusive relationships? Confuse jealousy for love Victim feels responsible for the abuse Fear Violence is only part of the relationship Shame Children

8 Why Do Batterers Batter? Saw it in their family of origin Experienced abuse as a child A need for control BECAUSE THEY CAN

9 Warnings Signs Does Your Co-worker’s Partner: Check up on them frequently? Insult them publicly and privately? Destroy belongings or hurt pets? Call, visit, or fax excessively? Do these interruptions seem to cause distress to your co-worker?

10 Warnings Signs Does Your Co-worker: Have excessive absences or tardiness? Seem unable to concentrate or appear distracted, depressed or anxious? Have frequent unexplained bruises or injuries? Frequently break appointments with friends or family? Seem to “edit” what they say about their partner, or suddenly stop talking about their partner? Wear concealing clothing even in warm weather?

11 What should you do when dealing with possible victims? Encourage them to talk in a safe, private place Listen and believe but don’t judge Express concern for their safety Help them understand it is not their fault Let them know help is available at your company Offer your continued support - leaving takes time Express your admiration for their courage Respect their privacy

12 What should you do when dealing with possible abusers? Abusers must want to change and realize they need help—the abuse won’t just “go away” on its own Encourage an abuser to get professional help through the EAP, the Yellow Pages, or by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at SAFE

13 If you need help, you can get it here at your company or by calling SAFE If you are concerned for someone you know, share your concerns with them Ending partner violence is everybody’s business! Remember