October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Violence in the family and in relationships has existed throughout history, but only in the last 30 years has domestic violence been recognized in intimate relationships. It was during the 1970's that the first shelters and services for battered women were established. Research suggests that nearly 25 percent of women will experience some sort of abuse in an intimate relationship and that 10 percent of those women will suffer from severe abuse. Domestic violence is considered a problem rooted in society and not in individuals. All social workers should recognize and understand the complex economic, emotional, cultural, and societal factors that keep women and family members in violent situations.

For more information regarding domestic violence awareness month, please go to: http://www.ncadv.org/

The following educational institutions have information on domestic violence

• University of Michigan, School of Social Work
• Adelphi University, School of Social Work
• University of Southern California, School of Social Work
• University of Texas, School of Social Work