Violence Prevention

Violence in the home causes many deaths and injuries. About half of all homicides and suicides occur in the home. Intimate partner violence hurts the victim's

• health,
• ability to earn a living, and
• children.

Women are more likely to be abused by an intimate partner than are men. However, men can also be victims.

Violence in the home can lead to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, substance abuse, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Children living in homes with violence can have problems with development, mental health, aggression, self-esteem, and school.

Abuse can lead to suicide attempts, psychotic episodes, homelessness, and slow recovery from mental illness. Children who see or are victims of abuse can become abusers as adults.

Other types of violence are

• teen dating abuse—this abuse often takes place in the home of one of the partners;
• child maltreatment—about 1,500 children die from maltreatment each year; and
• electronic aggression—more adolescents are becoming victims of this new form of violence.

Health and Safety Tips

• Practice positive parenting skills, such as good communication, appropriate discipline, and appropriate responses to children's physical and emotional needs.
• Talk with your children about dating and respect.
• Talk with kids about where they are going and who they are talking with on the Internet.

Important Links

• Intimate Partner Violence Prevention
• Facts About Domestic Violence (American Psychiatric Association)