A sensitively written and useful resource for victims of domestic abuse and those who care about them, is ‘Killing You Softly: A guide to understanding domestic violence and abuse.’
Evin M. Daly’s bio states that he is “a specialist in child abuse and domestic violence prevention and protection systems, child welfare systems and an adviser on their development and management.” The domestic violence guide that this expert has written, in consort with Dr. Natasha N. Bray, is a superb overview of domestic violence issues and challenges. In addition to educating readers about different types of domestic violence, applicable laws, statistics and terminology, this vital guide is filled with lifesaving information regarding how to safely leave an abusive situation and where to go to receive help.
Daly’s chapter on the myths and realities of domestic violence shatters common misconceptions about domestic violence. For example, I did not realize that domestic violence is the LEADING cause of injury to American women in the 15 to 44-year-old age range. That is a truly alarming statistic.
In another chapter, Daly discusses factors that are predictive of future abuse or homicide. Because red flags for domestic abuse begin early in a relationship, it is important to identify signs that a new partner is likely to become abusive. Additionally, there are eye-opening statistics on how likely it is for an abuser to commit murder based upon abuse events, the presence of a weapon in the household, and whether or not the victim has left the abusive situation.
I highly recommend this book for victims of domestic violence and those who wish to learn more about domestic violence abuse. After reading this guide, I had a significantly better grasp of what domestic violence is and the legal, physical, financial, and emotional challenges that domestic abuse victims face. I also learned about several valuable resources that I had not previously been aware of thanks to the book’s resource listings.
Below, is a sampling of the useful resources mentioned in this guide.
National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline
Phone: National Hotline 1-866-331-9474 TTY: 1-866-331-8453
TTY- Text loveisrespect
Website: www.loveisrespect.org
VictimConnect Resource Center
Website: www.Victimconnect.org
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN)
Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Website: www.rainn.org
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
Phone: 1-877-739-3895
Website: www.nscrc.org