The pain of domestic violence reaches far beyond physical harm. Most victims suffer from long-term depression, self-deprecation, substance abuse, eating disorders, and more. A new study from the University of Pittsburgh shows that women who are survivors of domestic violence have a difficult time earning and managing money, even long after the relationship is terminated. The impact of the abuse lasts much longer than the bruises and scars.
How Domestic Violence Impacts A Victim’s Financial Stability
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh assessed the financial statistics for nearly 4,000 Pennsylvania women who filed for orders of protection against their abusers between 1995 and 1996. The results showed that nearly all of the women saw a change in their earning the year after their restraining orders were approved, losing between $312 and $1,018 worth of income (equivalent to $1,500 after inflation). Researchers say that this may partly be due to the emotional trauma associated with this process, as well as the time and money needed to complete court proceedings.
Women who filed for welfare after filing for a protective order saw less of a change in their financial stability because their earnings were not impacted by court appearances. The researchers said, “Our results suggest that not only the costs of abuse, but also the price of protection, contribute to earnings inequality and women’s economic insecurity.”
Types Of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse comes in many shapes and forms, all of which can be detrimental to the victim. While most people associate physical abuse with domestic violence, emotional and psychological abuse will also be present. Some victims may experience more than one form of abuse, while others only encounter one core issue. It all depends on how the abusers used their power to gain control over their victims.
Both men and women can be the victims of domestic violence, but studies on domestic violence worldwide often focus on women. Three women die every day in America at the hands of their abusers. The problem impacts nearly every demographic in our society.
Treatment For Domestic Violence
If you have been the victim of domestic violence, there are treatment solutions available for you. You can work with a professional counselor to face the pain from your past and move on to a brighter future. No one will ever be able to take away the physical scars from your past relationship, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer emotionally forever. Talk to one of the counselors at Perspectives Of Troy counseling centers today to learn how you can start feeling better again. Remember, “You Need Not Walk Alone”. (248) 244-8644