Rage 16’’ x 16’’
Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship. National Domestic Abuse Hotline
“Domestic violence doesn’t look the same in every relationship because every relationship is different. But one thing most abusive relationships have in common is that the abusive partner exhibits varying types of behaviors to have more power and control over their partner.”
“In fact, many abusive partners may seem absolutely perfect in the early stages of a relationship. Possessive and controlling behaviors don’t always appear overnight, but rather emerge and intensify as the relationship grows.” National Domestic Abuse Hotline
Rage, the feeling or expression of violent uncontrollable anger is one thing that can grow over time in an abusive relationship.
For the abuser, rage might be a symptom of his/her emotional problems/lack of control/etc. The abuser’s rage allows him/her to gain control over the abused.
For the abused, rage is a reactive symptom of other feelings/emotions/circumstances. For the secondary victims, rage is a reactive symptom of anger/frustration/fear.
If you have a friend or family member who is experiencing abuse here are some things you can do to help. The most important thing to remember is that the choice to leave or not is theirs. You can't make them leave a bad situation but you can be supportive and helpful in their choice. They will need someone they can count on when/if they do decide to end or leave the abusive relationship.
Domestic Violence knows no boundaries when it comes to race/gender/sexuality/age/socioeconomic status/geographic location/culture.
Remember, domestic abuse affects ten million people in the US every year. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please know that the folks at the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1 800 799 SAFE or thehotline.org) are ready to listen and support you, as well as refer you to a local program or organization. If you observe someone being abused, you can also call the hotline. A good samaritan call can save a life!
--
All of the quilts in the Domestic Abuse series so far can be viewed here.
