Domestic violence is any form of physical or sexual abuse involving married or divorced couples, lovers, children or other relatives. Domestic violence may result in permanent physical injury or death, and often leaves feelings of isolation, anger and bitterness.

Battering, like any other human behavior, has been learned, so it can be unlearned. A "cycle of violence" begins with tension building in the relationship, escalates into an actual physical assault, and ends with the abuser being remorseful and promising it will never happen again. The victim usually believes this, and is drawn back into the "cycle", which inevitably recurs. Without legal intervention, the abuse will happen more frequently and become more severe. Victims can help themselves by utilizing the services of the Police, the State Attorney's Office and other community resources.
 

HOPE PLACE offers battered women temporary emergency shelter, provides counseling to help victims develop skills and a plan of action in establishing violence-free lives, provides advocacy with other social service agencies and the criminal justice system and helps prevent family violence through public awareness and education. The shelter operates a 24-hour crisis line, with trained counselors and requires personal contact with the abused victim prior to admission. This contact is made through Helpline. The hotline number is (256) 716-1000.


Help put an end to the cycle of family violence, call HELPLINE at (256) 716-1000. Counselors can put you in touch with a number of agencies that can provide beneficial services.

How Does Your Relationship Compare??
  

2005 Alabama Domestic Violence Offences by County
2004 Alabama Domestic Violence Statistics

 

Information on Child Abuse