What exactly is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse occurs when one party in a domestic relationship abuses the other party with whom they are or were in that relationship. A domestic relationship is one in which the parties involved are or were married, or living together as spouses, or have children in common. The abuse manifests in several different forms including verbal, mental or psychological, emotional, sexual, physical, and financial abuse. Results could lead to isolation, anger, bitterness, distrust, emotional wounds/scars, and permanent physical injury. Oftentimes however, it ultimately ends in death!

[See Diagram of "Cycle of Domestic Violence."]

A review of recurring cases of domestic violence indentifies the following common denominators as the problems in many relationships: (1) Lack of higher education, (2) Hardwork for little pay, (3) childcare issues, (4) Disintegration of the family unit, (5) Poor self esteem, and (6) Abuse of alcohol and other controlled or illegal substances.

To curtail this cycle of violence, Bridges To Africa^® has taken a stand to educate society in general, but particularly, women about this epidemic. We start raising awareness even as early as childhood because the children of today are the leaders of tomorrow. We all need to recognize that there are other nonviolent ways to resolve a dispute. We must get a handle on our anger and learn to control it, rather than letting it control us. In addition to the primary education on the issue of violence, Bridges To Africa^® makes it possible for people to seek and obtain anger management classes, encouraging them to complete all recommended counseling.

To achieve these goals, Bridges To Africa^®, on an ongoing basis, partners with other organizations with similar missions -- as the saying goes, there is strength in numbers!!! We conduct awareness campaigns periodically and make guest appearances to give talks as often as the opportunity presents.

Verbal Abuse

Mental or Psychological Abuse:

Emotional Abuse

Sexual Abuse

Physical Abuse

Financial Abuse: To fully understand the pattern of domestic abuse, one must acknowledge and understand the "Cycle of Violence." In most cases, females are the more likely victims of domestic abuse, especially in a society that is dominated by their male counterparts. It is not uncommon in many domestic relationships for the woman to be dependent or reliant on the man. This dependence includes economic, as well as emotional dependence, which then open the door for abuse to gradually creep in.