On today’s Personal Safety, Bob Boilard of Defensive Strategies joined Lori to discuss domestic violence. They started off talking about the common signs of abuse and the control associated with it. They also discussed how it’s more than just physical abuse. Abusers can also destroy property, intimidate or embarrass their victims. Bob then told us about the high percentage of police who are abusers due to the nature of their work.
Next, Bob shared who is doing the abusing. He told us about elder abuse, abuse from former spouses or partners, parents and even women who abuse men. He added how abusers often harm their victims physically, sexually, emotionally, economically and psychologically. Further data was given from the CDC about female homicides being related to domestic violence. Also, based on ethnicity and sexual orientation.
Bob then told us that abusers believe they have the right to control and restrict their partners, and might even like overpowering them to feel significant. Lynn Nadeau called in to ask if there may be a link between pornography and domestic violence. Finally, Bob shared questions to ask someone you think may be a victim of domestic violence. Listen in and hear more about it!