The Legal System’s Bias: How Domestic Violence Survivors Are Re-Victimized
By Stephanie Smith When it comes to domestic violence (DV), survivors often find that the hardest battles don’t end once they escape the abuse. They quickly realize that getting legal protection, emotional support, and physical help isn’t as straightforward as it seems. In many ways, intimate partner violence (IPV) is not treated with the same […]
Understanding “Flying Monkeys” After Abuse: How to Handle Manipulation and Gaslighting
By Makayla Shave One of the most challenging and unexpected obstacles survivors face after leaving an abusive relationship is the emergence of “flying monkeys.” These individuals—whether friends, family, or acquaintances—may unknowingly support the abuser, often questioning or downplaying your experience. At Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence (BTSADV), we believe that understanding this dynamic is […]
Understanding the Complex Layers of Domestic Violence: Prevention and Support.
By Sammie Rose Domestic violence is a pervasive issue, affecting millions of lives each day. While most think of physical abuse, the layers of domestic violence stretch far beyond that, encompassing emotional, psychological, and financial forms. Each instance causes deep harm, with some victims losing their lives to their abusers. The question remains: How many […]
Creating a Safety Plan: Essential Steps for Leaving an Abusive Relationship.
By Mikayla Shave So, you’ve come to the painful realization that you’re in an abusive relationship, but now you’re faced with the overwhelming question: what do I do next? Your mind is flooded with questions, doubts, and fears. While friends and family may have tried to help you see the situation for what it is, […]
“Faith, Self-Love, and Healing: Navigating Domestic Violence in Religious Communities”
By Stephanie Smith Survivors of domestic violence often identify deeply with their spirituality, viewing faith as a source of strength and comfort. A significant number of these survivors turn to God or their religious communities for emotional and spiritual healing. Yet, for many, the teachings of their faith or the reactions of their spiritual leaders […]
“Domestic Violence and Custody: Navigating Legal Steps for Full Custody and Protection”
By Mikayla Shave Navigating Custody Battles as a Domestic Violence Survivor: Essential Steps and Strategies When domestic violence plays a role in custody decisions, it can have a significant impact on parenting time and decision-making responsibilities. Many family law judges are required to consider evidence of domestic violence or child abuse when determining custody, even […]