Signs of a Toxic Relationship
A guide to recognizing a toxic relationship, and the signs that it’s escalating to abuse By Amanda Kippert Many of us have used toxic to describe a relationship at some…
After Abuse, Everyone Has an Opinion
After leaving an abuser, some people will share judgement, opinions—here’s why you shouldn’t listen By Shelley Flannery If you told anyone during your relationship about the abuse you were experiencing,…
Why We Blame Victims for Domestic Violence
And how to respond to victim-blaming when it’s directed at you By Amanda Kippert How many times have you read a news story about a woman accusing someone of abuse…
What Victim-Blaming Sounds Like
Five responses that we need to stop perpetuating By Amanda Kippert Now more than ever, we could argue that our default mode when hearing the news is to be skeptical.…
What is ‘Victim Shaming’?
Victim shaming comments and questions focus the blame on the wrong person By DomesticShelters.org When women began stepping forward late last year accusing comedian and actor Bill Cosby of various…
How to Ask About Abuse
There’s a right and a wrong way to inquire if you’re concerned By Amanda Kippert Have you ever gotten an “off” feeling about a friend’s, loved one’s or coworker’s partner?…
You Can Call a Hotline Even If You Don’t Want to Leave
10 questions you can ask an advocate that have nothing to do with shelter By Lisa Aronson Fontes, PhD Contrary to what many believe, shelter hotlines are not only for…
What Happens When You Press Charges for Domestic Violence?
Learn more about pressing charges for domestic violence. Keep in mind, state laws and local practices vary Lisa Aronson Fontes, PhD If a partner has been abusive toward you, it…
Why We Can’t Blame Abuse on Alcohol
Dispelling the common myth that batterers abuse because they’re drunk, and will stop when sober By DomesticShelters.org It’s all too often heard that someone’s partner is only mean/violent/abusive when they’re…