September 17, 2009
Physical abuse is abuse involving contact intended to cause feelings of intimidation, pain, injury, or other physical suffering or bodily harm. Physical abuse can result in bruises, black eyes, knocked out teeth, broken bones, internal organ injuries, miscarriage, brain concussions, and even death. It applies to children, adults, and just as well as the elderly. Women or men who may have been physically abused by their partner in the past may feel surprised when it happens again. Other victims may walk around knowing that their partner may become physically abusive at any time. Some victims take on guilt about the physical abuse they are receiving, as if they are somehow to blame. Many women report that the physical violence against them escalated when they were pregnant or when their children were very young. This increase in abuse may be a result of the abuser having feelings of jealousy over the woman’s concern for another individual, even if it is an unborn or small child. Some women are intimidated or manipulated into not reporting the abuse they are receiving out of concern for another person. These women may find they are in a relationship with a batterer who is threatening harm to their children, parents, extended family or even to themselves through threats of suicide. These women believe that their abuser will carry out their threats. Many men are intimidated into not reporting physical abuse they are receiving from their female partner because they feel much shame. Many men are taught from a young age that they should be strong and tough. Men may also choose to stay in a physically abusive relationship is out of concern for his children. He feels it is necessary to stay with an abusive wife so the children do not become her victims. Many victims of physical abuse become experts at hiding the abuse from others. They also become experts at coming up with excuses for their bumps, bruises, or broke bones if they are ever