2008 Woodie Awards
Vote Absentee
Relationship violence discussed
Rici Chamberlain
Issue date: 2/7/08 Section: News
| |
|
Schroeder is a community education coordinator for Anna Marie's Alliance, and her topic of discussion was that of relationship violence.
Relationship violence can come from any family member and any relationship you are in, be it a boyfriend/girlfriend, or even a very close friend. Any one of these people can afflict physical, verbal and emotional abuse on the victim. The abuser will also use anything to threaten a victim so they get what they want.
"There are young people out there who think there is no such thing as a healthy relationship," Schroeder said after recently talking with a group of high school girls.
Schroeder was quick to emphasize that there might not be a perfect relationship, but there are plenty of people who have healthy relationships.
There are three stages to domestic violence.
The first is the tension building. This is when the abuser usually uses force or coercion to get what they want.
The second stage is violence. The tension breaks and there is abuse against a victim.
The last stage is seduction. Abusers usually apologize, make promises to change and pay special attention to their partners immediately following a violent incident.
The last step is usually what draws a victim back in because they think that the abuser is truly sorry and won't do it again.
Many people think that relationship or domestic violence does not affect them, but in fact it is happening if you know it or not. 20 to 30 percent of college dating relationships have included incidents of both verbal and physical abuse. 21% of college students have experienced being stalked by a person. 20-24 year olds are at greater risk of being in a violent relationship.
Schroeder made sure to add that women were not the only ones that could get abused. While men tend to be more physical, women abusers tend to be more verbal such as threatening to ruin future relationships and using guilt to get their own way.
There are many things that can be done to help with these issues. Get the community involved. "One of the reasons why you want the community involved is because it's the community that knows the culture of the neighborhood." Schroeder said. A community can help put together a place for victims to stay and help raise awareness about domestic abuse.
An individual can help by getting informed about domestic violence, lending a sympathetic ear, and helping a friend when they ask for it. "Don't hesitate to call 911 if you see or hear violence." Schroeder mentioned while asking the audience what they could do.
Third year student Janelle Anderson was surprised on the different forms of abuse that can happen. "It made me realize violence isn't physical abuse and it can start anywhere." Anderson said after Schroeder finished her presentation.
If you would like to know more or volunteer at Anna Marie's you can visit the website at www.annamaries.org or call 320-253-6900. Contacting Anna Marie's Alliance is free and confidential and can be contacted at 320-253-6900 or 1-866-223-1111 day or night.