1. ABUSE Abuse occurs in all kinds of family regardless of income, education level and ethnicity. Abuse can harm a persons physical, social and mental health. Victims experience fear, shame,humiliation and guilt. They feel powerless to change what is happening.

2. Long Term Effects Inability to trust people. Inability to form healthy relationships. Chronic physical pain. Depression/anxiety disorders/sleep disorders/eating disorders. Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol Injury to oneself.

3. Types of Abuse Emotional – a pattern of behavior that attacks the emotional development and sense of worth. Physical – the intentional infliction of bodily harm or injury on another person. Sexual – any sexual contact that is forced upon a person against his/her will.

4. Types of Abuse Spousal – domestic violence directed at a spouse. Child – domestic abuse directed at a child. Elder – domestic abuse directed at an elderly family member.

5. Avoiding Domestic Violence RECOGNIZE - become aware of acts that are abusive. RESIST –resist in anyway you can. Be assertive and stand up for yourself. REPORT – tell someone about the incidents of abuse as soon as you can.