Understanding Domestic Violence

 

What Is Domestic Violence?

 

​Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of coercive control that one individual exercises over another within a family or household. The primary aim of this behavior is to gain and maintain power and control over another person. This pattern of abuse can manifest in various forms and is not limited to any demographic or social group. 

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The Full Spectrum of Domestic Violence​

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Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, income, education, ability, or gender. It is a pervasive issue that does not discriminate—anyone can experience abuse at any time. The underlying cause of domestic violence is oppression, and societal attitudes such as racism, sexism, and homophobia can increase the vulnerability of certain groups. As a result, individuals who are subject to these forms of discrimination may be more likely to experience emotional, financial, and physical violence at the hands of those who should care for and nurture them. 

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Forms of Abuse​

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While physical abuse is often the first form of domestic violence that comes to mind, abusive partners may use a variety of other tactics to exert control. These can include verbal abuse, social isolation, and controlling the victim's finances. The central issue in domestic violence is the abuser’s desire for power; the means of achieving this control can vary widely but always serve the purpose of dominating the victim. 

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The Power and Control Wheel​

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The Power and Control Wheel was created by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project (DAIP) in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1984. This tool provides a visual representation of the various tactic's abusers use to control their partners. The wheel is divided into two main sections: the inner ring, which depicts subtle and ongoing behaviors, and the outer ring, which represents physical and sexual violence. This structure illustrates how physical violence is used to reinforce other forms of abuse, perpetuating a cycle of control over the victim. 

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Legal Protections: Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA)

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The Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA) is the state law that defines domestic violence, provides for the issuance and enforcement of orders of protection, and outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies. The IDVA also ensures confidentiality between victims or survivors of domestic violence and their counselors or advocates, offering important legal protections for those affected. 

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CDVP Certification

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CDVP stands for Certified Domestic Violence Professional. An individual earns this certification by meeting specific requirements established by the Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals, Inc. The purpose of the certification is to uphold the integrity, standards, and quality of care in the field of domestic violence support, ensuring that professionals are qualified to provide appropriate assistance to those in need. 

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Emergency Help​

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If you are in danger or fear for your life, call 911 right away.

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Other options include:

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• Speaking with your doctor or mental health professional 

• Calling or texting 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. The Lifeline Chat is also available, and services are free and confidential. 

• Contact the Illinois Helpline, Call 833-234-6343 or text "HELP" to 833234

• Contact the National Deaf Hotline, call 855-812-1001 for 24/7 ASL video phone support.

• Call the National Domestic Violence Helpline at 800-799-7233 or the Chicago Domestic Violence Hotline at 877-863-6338.

• Call the Sexual Assault Hotline at 708-482-9600.