In the United States, around 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. If you’ve experienced domestic violence in your past, clinical psychologist Dr. Kristine Buffington offers valuable support at Buffington Family Practice in Keller, Texas. You deserve the compassion and understanding of a qualified mental health specialist who can help you on the road to better wellness, happiness, confidence, and peace of mind. Improve your quality of life and call Buffington Family Medicine today.
Domestic violence refers to a type of abuse that typically involves a partner or spouse, but it can also involve a child, relative, or another family member. Domestic violence can include:
More commonly, women are victims of domestic violence. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some type of physical violence by an intimate partner and 1 in 7 women and 1 in 25 men have suffered an injury by an intimate partner.
Outbursts of domestic violence tend to be unpredictable and episodic. Domestic violence can lead to mental health conditions, such as PTSD.
The most obvious form of domestic violence is physical abuse that can include hitting, slapping, punching, breaking bones, kicking, pushing, pulling hair, twisting arms, choking, beating, and burning. Food or sleep might also be withheld and weapons might be used to threaten or cause harm.
Sexual assault involves the use of force or threats to coerce sexual contact, such as unwanted grabbing, touching, kissing, and rape.
Psychological abuse is common and often accompanies sexual or physical abuse. Psychological abuse refers to any non-physical behavior that undermines, belittles, or exerts control, such as social isolation, abusive language, financial control, humiliation, intimidation, and threats.
The first step to get help is to tell someone you know you can trust, such as a friend, family member, or co-worker. You can also call a domestic violence helpline, call 911, or visit an emergency shelter.
You may feel desperate and unable to leave a situation of domestic abuse due to:
Dr. Buffington provides psychotherapy to help reduce the effects and symptoms caused by a history of domestic violence. Call Buffington Family Medicine to get the support you deserve.