Matching Pairs Myths and factsOnline version Gender Equality Project by Gemma Martínez 1 Domestic violence only occurs in poor, urban areas. 2 Domestic violence is just a push, slap or punch – it does not produce serious injuries. 3 Battering is only a momentary loss of temper, 4 It is easy for battered women to leave their abuser. 5 Domestic violence does not affect many people. Women of all cultures, races, occupations, income levels, and ages are battered – by husbands, boyfriends, lovers and partners who are professional men who are well respected in their jobs and their communities. Battering is the establishment of control and fear in a relationship through violence and other forms of abuse. Battered women are often severely injured – 22 to 35% of women who visit medical emergency rooms are there for injuries related to ongoing partner abuse. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between ages 15 and 44 in the USA-more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. Women who leave their batterers are at a 75% greater risk of being killed by the batterer than those who stay. 50% of all homeless women and children are on the streets because of violence in the home.
New game