Spousal Abuse is a rising issue today in the United States. Spousal Abuse affects individuals of all social classes and gender and both males and females are victims of spousal abuse. Abuse of men is not a topic commonly known or discussed in our society as easily as abuse of females for various reasons. However it is a topic that needs to be examined so men who are being abused know they are not alone and society treats it as problem and not over look it. Bedsides the individuals directly involved it also affects children, other family members and friends that surround them.
More than five million people are battered every year alone in the United States. (Business Wire) It is estimated each year violence occurs in sixteen percent of all relationships. Both American and Canadian wives have reported to be more likely to physically assault their husbands than for their husbands to assault them. (Mills) In California one third of all murders of women are a result of domestic dispute. Six percent of spousal abuse is severe involving some of the following: kicking, biting, beating and attacks with a gun or a knife. (Gross) Twenty five percent of victims require medical treatment. (Business Wire) Between forty and sixty percent of men who abuse their wives also abuse their children. (Issues and Controversies)
WHAT IS SPOUSAL ABUSE?
There is a wide range of definitions for spousal abuse. The literal meaning of spouse is a husband, wife or a common law partner. (Spousal Abuse) The following definition is compiled from various sources to better define it. Spousal Abuse is abuse of spouse or partner in a relationship in which the two people are dating, married or living together; abuse may be physical, mental or emotional or sexual.
PHYSICAL ABUSE
Physical Abuse may begin with minor acts and later on escalate to more serious acts upon the victim. The results of these acts may lead to marks and/or injuries that may be in need of medical treatment.