When Hard Work Goes Unnoticed: The Emotional Toll of Workplace Disrespect

BY: Lorena black

Many employees dedicate their lives to their work, believing that effort and loyalty will lead to recognition and respect. However, in countless workplaces, dedication is met with indifference and hard-working individuals are left feeling undervalued, disrespected, and exhausted. This article examines the emotional and psychological impact of workplace neglect and disrespect, the systemic reasons why employers fail to appreciate their workers, and the long-term consequences for both employees and businesses. By bringing attention to this issue, we aim to advocate for a culture that values and respects workers for their contributions.

Work is a fundamental part of life. People spend decades committed to their jobs, sacrificing personal time and well-being in pursuit of financial stability and professional growth. Yet, for many employees, hard work is not rewarded with appreciation, fair treatment, or respect. Instead, they experience neglect, dismissal, and an overwhelming sense of being unrecognized despite their efforts.

The emotional toll of workplace disrespect is profound. When employees constantly feel undervalued, their mental and physical health suffers. Workplace dissatisfaction can lead to burnout, stress-related illnesses, and a significant decline in motivation. Even worse, a culture of disregard can force employees into a cycle of resentment where they either disengage entirely or lash out in frustration, perpetuating a toxic work environment. This article explores why hard work so often goes unnoticed, how it affects employees, and what needs to change to create a healthier, more respectful workplace culture.

Why Hard Work Often Goes Unrecognized

There are several reasons why employees are not properly acknowledged for their contributions. One of the most common is the normalization of overwork. In many industries, it is expected that employees will go above and beyond their job descriptions without additional compensation or recognition. Instead of being rewarded, those who work hardest are often given even more responsibilities. This reinforces a cycle where effort is not appreciated but exploited.

Another key factor is corporate culture and leadership failure. Some employers operate under the belief that employees are simply doing what they are paid to do and, therefore, do not require additional appreciation. In other cases, companies prioritize profits and productivity over employee well-being, creating environments where individuals are seen as replaceable rather than valuable. When leadership fails to foster a culture of recognition, even the most dedicated employees will eventually feel invisible.

Additionally, workplace bias and favoritism play a significant role in who receives acknowledgment. Promotions and praise are not always distributed based on merit. Instead, office politics, personal relationships, and unconscious biases often dictate which employees are valued and which are overlooked. This can be especially harmful in workplaces where certain demographics, such as women, minorities, or older employees, are disproportionately ignored despite their experience and contributions.

The Emotional and Psychological Consequences

Being unappreciated in the workplace does not just affect an employee’s job performance; it deeply impacts their emotional and psychological well-being. Long-term neglect and disrespect can lead to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt. Employees who are consistently overlooked may start to question their own abilities, even if they are highly skilled and competent.

Workplace disrespect is also a significant contributor to burnout. When employees feel that their work is meaningless or unrecognized, their motivation diminishes. A study by Maslach and Leiter (2016) found that employees who experience chronic workplace neglect are at a higher risk of developing burnout, which can manifest as extreme fatigue, detachment, and reduced performance.

Beyond burnout, workplace neglect can trigger anxiety and depression. Studies indicate that employees who feel underappreciated are more likely to experience symptoms of depression, stress-related health issues, and even lower life satisfaction (Schaufeli et al., 2021). The psychological toll extends beyond the office, affecting personal relationships, self-esteem, and overall mental well-being.

The Ripple Effect: How Disrespect Impacts the Workplace

A toxic work environment does not just harm individual employees, it creates a widespread negative impact on the organization as a whole. When employees feel disrespected and undervalued, productivity declines. A disengaged worker is far less likely to put in extra effort or care about the company’s success. Research has shown that employees who feel unappreciated are more likely to make errors, be less innovative, and have lower overall job performance (Bakker & Demerouti, 2017).

High turnover rates are another direct consequence of workplace neglect. Employees who feel unseen and unheard are more likely to leave in search of a job where they are valued. This leads to increased recruitment costs and loss of institutional knowledge within a company. Businesses that fail to appreciate their employees ultimately suffer financially, as high turnover disrupts the workflow and damages the company's reputation.

Additionally, workplace neglect contributes to a cycle of toxicity. When disrespected employees remain in an organization, their frustration often manifests in negative ways. Some become withdrawn and disengaged, while others lash out, creating an environment where negativity and resentment thrive. Over time, this cycle can poison an entire workplace, making it difficult to retain talent and build a healthy company culture.

Breaking the Cycle: How to Create a Culture of Respect and Recognition

Addressing workplace neglect requires intentional efforts at every level of an organization. Leadership must prioritize employee well-being by implementing meaningful recognition programs and ensuring that appreciation is an integral part of company culture. Simple gestures such as regular praise, employee awards, and genuine acknowledgment of hard work can significantly improve morale.

Companies must also promote fairness and transparency in promotions and rewards. Implementing clear performance evaluation criteria can help eliminate bias and favoritism, ensuring that recognition is based on merit rather than office politics. Providing employees with opportunities for growth, such as mentorship programs, professional development, and career advancement pathways, demonstrates that an organization values its workers.

Another crucial step is fostering open communication. Employees should feel safe expressing their concerns about workplace respect without fear of retaliation. Implementing anonymous feedback channels, employee engagement surveys, and leadership training can help create an environment where all voices are heard.

Workplace neglect and disrespect have far-reaching consequences, affecting employees’ mental health, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. When hard work goes unnoticed, workers become disengaged, companies suffer from high turnover rates, and toxic cultures thrive. However, by fostering a culture of appreciation and fairness, organizations can create environments where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated. No one should dedicate their life to a job only to feel invisible. It is time for businesses to recognize the power of respect and the profound impact that genuine appreciation can have on workplace well-being.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather, and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

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References

Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). Understanding the burnout experience: Recent research and its implications for psychiatry. World Psychiatry, 15(2), 103-111.

Schaufeli, W. B., Taris, T. W., & Van Rhenen, W. (2021). Workaholism, burnout, and work engagement: Three of a kind or three different kinds of employee well-being? Applied Psychology, 70(2), 489-517.

Bakker, A. B., & Demerouti, E. (2017). Job demands-resources theory: Taking stock and looking forward. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 22(3), 273-285.

The Silent Epidemic: Workplace Abuse and Why No One Talks About It

BY: Lorena black

Workplace Abuse is a prevalent but sometimes disregarded problem that impacts workers across all sectors. Fear of retribution, economic instability, and insufficient knowledge perpetuate the silence of workplace harassment. This article examines several types of Workplace Abuse, the reasons workers are reluctant to report it, and the repercussions of permitting toxic work environments to endure. By illuminating this problem, we want to promote change and provide assistance for people suffering in silence.

For many, employment transcends mere financial compensation; it represents a venue for the investment of years characterized by diligence, commitment, and personal development. For many individuals, the workplace is not a realm of respect and opportunity, but a source of psychological suffering and maltreatment. Workplace Abuse, including bullying, harassment, or systematic exploitation, is disturbingly prevalent; nonetheless, despite its ubiquity, it continues to be one of the most underexplored topics in work culture. What is the reason? Apprehension. Employees apprehend job loss, reputational harm, or more maltreatment if they voice their concerns. Consequently, several individuals endure in silence, confined inside what may seem a self-imposed incarceration. This blog seeks to elucidate the many manifestations of Workplace Abuse, the psychological repercussions on employees, and the factors contributing to the pervasive sense of powerlessness among workers to advocate for themselves. 

Characterizing Workplace Abuse

Workplace Abuse manifests in several ways, including verbal and emotional maltreatment, bullying, discrimination, exploitation, and retribution. Verbal and Emotional Abuse often includes persistent criticism, disparaging remarks, public humiliation, or passive-aggressive communication. Bullying and harassment include intimidation, threats, exclusion, or manipulation by peers or superiors. Discrimination and inequitable treatment arise when workers encounter prejudiced acts predicated on gender, color, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. Overwork and exploitation occur when workers are compelled to labor beyond reasonable expectations without enough reward or acknowledgment. Retaliation for voicing concerns may include demotion, exclusion, or termination as penalties for reporting malfeasance. Such actions create toxic work environments that undermine morale and mental well-being, but many employers overlook or even facilitate them.

Reasons for Employee Silence

Notwithstanding the detrimental effects, workers often choose against reporting abuse. The worry of retribution is among the primary factors. Numerous individuals claim that voicing their concerns would worsen their circumstances, a notion corroborated by studies. Research indicates that 75% of workers who report workplace harassment encounter some sort of retribution (Cortina & Magley, 2021). Financial instability is another significant aspect. For many, particularly those who depend on their earnings to sustain families, job loss is not a viable alternative.

Insufficient organizational support also deters workers from reporting harassment. Human resources departments are often seen as safeguarding the organization rather than the employees, resulting in workers feeling disregarded and vulnerable. Moreover, Workplace Abuse is sometimes institutionalized in certain businesses, causing workers to see enduring harassment as being "part of the job." When abuse is normalized within a corporate culture, people find it more difficult to identify it as inappropriate or to summon the resolve to confront it. 

The Prolonged Consequences of Occupational Abuse 

Prolonged Workplace Abuse may have catastrophic consequences, both professionally and psychologically. The deterioration of mental health is a primary effect, as countless workers endure anxiety, sadness, PTSD, and burnout due to extended abuse (Hershcovis et al., 2020). Employees who see themselves as undervalued and powerless in their jobs have diminished productivity. A hostile work environment results in disengagement, less motivation, and increased turnover rates, adversely affecting both the person and the organization overall. 

In addition to emotional and professional challenges, workplace violence may adversely affect physical health. Stress-induced ailments, including hypertension, sleeplessness, and compromised immunological function, are often associated with extended job abuse. Moreover, Workplace Abuse often sustains a detrimental loop. Employees subjected to prolonged harassment may inadvertently replicate such actions, fostering new aggressors and perpetuating toxic conditions throughout successive generations of workers.

Confronting Workplace Abuse: Strategies for Intervention 

Although Workplace Abuse is pervasive in several areas, it is not insurmountable to confront. Education and awareness are essential measures in combating workplace maltreatment. Both employers and workers must be informed about Workplace Abuse and its repercussions to identify and mitigate toxic behaviors before they intensify. Enhanced legislative safeguards are essential to shield employees from retribution and to ensure that abusive bosses are held responsible.

Enabling workers to report abuse, get legal counsel, and provide mutual support is a crucial measure in dismantling the silence. When employees unite, they have the power to contest inequitable treatment and assert their rights. Organizational cultural transformation is also essential. Organizations should put employee welfare into profit and production. A culture of respect and equity originates at the leadership tier and must be vigorously advocated throughout all organizational levels.

Workplace Abuse is a pervasive pandemic impacting millions; however, fear and structural inadequacies render it concealed. Illuminating this problem enables us to start the process of transformation. Individuals should not endure employment when they are subjected to mistreatment, devaluation, or intimidation in voicing their concerns. Increased discourse on Workplace Abuse makes it more difficult for businesses to disregard the issue. Transformation begins with consciousness, and awareness is initiated through dialogues like this.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

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Sources

Cortina, L. M., & Magley, V. J. (2021). Patterns of workplace mistreatment: The interplay of bullying, incivility, and abuse. Journal of Applied Psychology, 106(3), 342-356.

Hershcovis, M. S., Ogunfowora, B., Reich, T. C., & Christie, A. M. (2020). Targeting the abused: The cycle of workplace mistreatment. Journal of Business Ethics, 162(2), 435-449.

The Impact of Family Neglect on Homeless Youth and Their Vulnerability to Abuse

BY: Lorena black

Exploring the profound effects of family neglect on homeless youth reveals a troubling reality: these young individuals face heightened vulnerability to abuse. The intersection of neglect and homelessness creates a precarious situation, leaving them exposed to various dangers and challenges. As we delve into this critical issue, it becomes clear that addressing family neglect is essential in safeguarding the well-being of these at-risk youth.

The issue of youth homelessness is escalating, with family neglect emerging as a critical factor that drives young individuals to seek refuge on the streets. In the absence of stable parental support, these individuals encounter significant dangers, such as exploitation, trafficking, and violent victimization. Grasping the link between neglect and homelessness is crucial for crafting effective intervention strategies.

Family neglect can often serve as a critical pathway leading individuals toward homelessness. This troubling issue highlights the complex interplay between familial relationships and housing stability, raising urgent questions about support systems and intervention strategies.

Experts indicate that neglect stands as a significant contributor to the alarming rise in youth homelessness. Studies indicate that a notable percentage of homeless youth have faced severe neglect, abandonment, or issues related to parental substance abuse, according to research conducted by Toro and colleagues in 2007. In the absence of financial or emotional backing, these young individuals frequently find themselves with no option but to depart from their homes. Once experiencing homelessness, individuals face significant challenges in accessing education, healthcare, and employment, which complicates their reintegration into society.
Family neglect manifests in various ways, ranging from the failure to supply essential needs such as food and shelter to emotional neglect, where children are stripped of love, guidance, and a sense of security. As time progresses, these circumstances drive young individuals toward instability, heightening their vulnerability to homelessness. Parental substance abuse and domestic violence are critical factors exacerbating these troubling patterns, compelling numerous minors to flee perilous home situations with limited options for support.

Addressing the pressing issue of the abuse and exploitation faced by homeless youth is crucial. This vulnerable population often finds themselves at the mercy of circumstances beyond their control, leading to dire consequences. Advocacy and awareness are essential in shedding light on their struggles and the urgent need for protective measures.


Once they find themselves on the streets, homeless youth face a heightened risk of numerous forms of abuse, such as physical assault, sexual exploitation, and trafficking. Research shows that a staggering 30 to 40 percent of homeless youth face the grim reality of sexual exploitation or trafficking, according to a study conducted by Murphy, Taylor, and Bolden in 2019. In a stark reality faced by many, the absence of protective family structures and limited resources push individuals into perilous circumstances. This often leads to desperate measures, including survival sex and involvement in criminal activities as a means of survival. Moreover, homeless youth find themselves disproportionately targeted by law enforcement, enduring frequent instances of police harassment. Across the nation, numerous cities have taken steps to criminalize homelessness, enacting laws that render sleeping in public spaces or panhandling illegal. This situation fosters a troubling cycle in which young individuals, rather than being offered the necessary support, find themselves labeled as criminals. Concerns about potential legal consequences frequently deter individuals from reaching out for assistance, leaving them ensnared in perilous circumstances.

In a significant development, experts are focusing on innovative solutions aimed at addressing the challenges faced by at-risk youth. This initiative seeks to break the cycle of adversity and provide these young individuals with the support they need to thrive. Tackling the issue of youth homelessness demands a comprehensive strategy that encompasses various elements. Efforts aimed at prevention must prioritize the identification of at-risk youth before their potential homelessness. This includes providing essential family counseling and exploring alternative living arrangements to ensure their safety and well-being. Schools and social services are essential in identifying early indicators of neglect and stepping in to prevent a crisis from escalating.

For individuals currently facing homelessness, the expansion of transitional housing programs is crucial. Trauma-informed care, vocational training, and access to education are essential components that can empower young individuals to regain stability and escape the cycle of homelessness. Furthermore, it is crucial to enhance legal protections to guarantee that homeless youth can access essential healthcare, mental health services, and safeguards against exploitation. Experts suggest that decriminalizing survival behaviors, along with the implementation of harm reduction strategies, could significantly reduce unnecessary legal entanglements.

Family neglect not only inflicts emotional scars but also drives young individuals into perilous and frequently irreversible circumstances. Addressing youth homelessness demands a comprehensive strategy that encompasses preventative measures, legal safeguards, and trauma-informed care. Every young person is entitled to a shot at stability, and society must step up to guarantee their safety and well-being. 

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

Murphy, L. T., Taylor, R. M., & Bolden, C. L. (2019). Trafficking risk among homeless youth: A multi-city study. Journal of Adolescent Health, 64(1), 55-62.

Toro, P. A., Dworsky, A., & Fowler, P. J. (2007). Homeless youth in the United States: Recent research findings and intervention approaches. National Symposium on Homelessness Research, 1, 3-23.

The Hidden Victims—Male Survivors of family abuse and neglect

BY: Lorena black

Male survivors of Family Abuse and neglect often remain in the shadows, their stories untold and their struggles overlooked. These hidden Victims face unique challenges as they navigate the complexities of their experiences, often battling societal stigma and a lack of support. As awareness grows, it is crucial to shine a light on their plight and advocate for the resources they need to heal and thrive.

In conversations surrounding Family Abuse, it is crucial to highlight that the experiences of male Victims often go unnoticed. Societal expectations that link masculinity to strength and emotional toughness play a significant role in the marginalization of male Survivors. Research indicates that men who endure Child Abuse or Domestic Violence encounter significant psychological, social, and economic repercussions, according to a study by Douglas and Hines conducted in 2011. The stigma associated with male victimization continues to hinder countless individuals from reaching out for support, thereby perpetuating a troubling cycle of abuse and silence.

Exploring the Role of Male Victims in Domestic Violence Dynamics 

In a surprising twist to widely held beliefs, it has been revealed that men face Domestic Violence at alarming rates. Recent studies indicate that approximately one in four men encounters some type of intimate partner violence, according to research conducted by Smith and colleagues in 2018. Societal perceptions surrounding male strength frequently result in skepticism when men come forward to report abuse. Legal and support systems, which are often tailored to assist female Victims, frequently fall short of delivering sufficient resources for male Survivors. Exploring the profound impact of Child Abuse, we delve into the long-term effects it has on men. This critical issue sheds light on the psychological and emotional challenges faced by those who have endured such trauma, highlighting the need for awareness and support in addressing these lasting scars.

Research indicates that men who endure abuse during childhood are at a heightened risk for various mental health challenges. These include conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse issues, according to a study by Finkelhor and colleagues in 2014. Numerous individuals face challenges in managing their emotions, largely influenced by cultural norms that often stigmatize emotional openness. Male Survivors often display externalizing behaviors, including aggression and risk-taking, rather than seeking help. This pattern, as noted by Easton et al. in 2013, can result in additional social and legal repercussions.

Challenges in Accessing Support and the Urgent Call for Gender-Inclusive Services 

One significant challenge facing male Survivors is the absence of support services that are inclusive of all genders. Numerous Domestic Violence shelters, counseling programs, and legal protections have been established primarily to support female Victims. Concerns about stigma and skepticism continue to deter men from coming forward to report instances of abuse. To tackle these issues, it is essential to broaden services that recognize male victimization while also confronting stereotypes that link masculinity to emotional invulnerability.

The oversight of male Survivors in conversations surrounding abuse significantly undermines initiatives aimed at tackling Domestic Violence and childhood maltreatment. In a significant move towards inclusivity, experts emphasize the importance of acknowledging and validating male victimization. This approach is deemed crucial for the development of effective support systems that cater to all individuals. By confronting societal norms and enhancing resources for male Survivors, we can guarantee that every Victim receives the necessary support they deserve.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

Douglas, E. M., & Hines, D. A. (2011). The help-seeking experiences of men who sustain intimate partner violence: An overlooked population and implications for practice. Journal of Family Violence, 26(6), 473-485.

Easton, S. D., Coohey, C., Rhodes, A. M., & Moorthy, M. V. (2013). Posttraumatic growth among men with histories of childhood sexual abuse. Child Maltreatment, 18(4), 211-220.

Finkelhor, D., Turner, H., Ormrod, R., & Hamby, S. (2014). Polyvictimization in a national sample of children and youth. Child Abuse & Neglect, 33(7), 403-411.

Smith, S. G., Zhang, X., Basile, K. C., Merrick, M. T., Wang, J., Kresnow, M., & Chen, J. (2018). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): 2015 Data Brief—Updated Release. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Silent Epidemic—Intergenerational Cycles of Family Abuse and Neglect

BY: Lorena black

Family abuse and neglect remain ongoing challenges that frequently span multiple generations. The conversation around Physical and Emotional Abuse is prevalent, yet the intergenerational cycle of trauma remains a less explored topic. This cycle, where Victims of abuse may become abusers themselves or find themselves in abusive relationships, warrants greater attention and understanding. Experts indicate that disrupting this cycle necessitates a multifaceted strategy that tackles psychological, social, and policy-related elements. 

Exploring the Complexities of Trauma Transmission 

Intergenerational trauma is intricately linked to both psychological conditioning and biological mechanisms, revealing the profound impact it has across generations. Children raised in abusive environments frequently come to see harmful behaviors as the norm, which significantly raises the chance that they will repeat these patterns in their adult lives, according to research by Cicchetti and Valentino from 2006. Individuals may also cultivate insecure attachment styles, which can significantly impact their capacity to establish healthy relationships. Recent research in the field of epigenetics indicates that significant childhood trauma may have the potential to modify stress response genes, which in turn could influence emotional regulation for generations to come, according to findings by Yehuda and colleagues in 2016.

Neglect is increasingly being recognized as a significant form of abuse, drawing attention from experts and advocates alike. This often-overlooked issue raises critical questions about the well-being of individuals who suffer in silence, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and intervention. Neglect stands out as one of the most harmful, yet frequently underestimated, forms of maltreatment in our society.

Neglect, in its various forms, physical, emotional, or educational, can have significant and lasting effects on an individual's cognitive and social development. Research by Dubowitz in 2013 highlights the serious implications of such neglect, underscoring the importance of addressing these issues to foster healthy growth and development. Children who grow up in neglectful environments frequently face significant developmental delays, struggle with academic performance, and are more vulnerable to mental health disorders. 

Breaking the Cycle: A Look at Interventions and Solutions 

Confronting the issue of intergenerational abuse necessitates a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy. At the individual level, experts emphasize that trauma-informed therapy and early childhood interventions play a crucial role in alleviating the impacts of abuse. At a societal level, it is essential to implement policies that offer both financial and emotional support for families at risk. Comprehensive child welfare services, along with public education initiatives focused on abuse prevention, are crucial components in addressing this pressing issue. A crucial challenge for legal frameworks is to judiciously weigh punitive measures against rehabilitative support to achieve meaningful recidivism prevention.

Family abuse and neglect are frequently not standalone occurrences; rather, they are often embedded within a generational cycle that necessitates focused interventions. Experts emphasize that a thorough, evidence-driven strategy is essential to disrupt this cycle and safeguard future generations from enduring similar trauma. Experts emphasize that by implementing a strategic blend of therapy, policy reforms, and heightened public awareness, we have the potential to foster safer family environments and mitigate the enduring impacts of abuse.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

Cicchetti, D., & Valentino, K. (2006). An ecological-transactional perspective on child maltreatment: Failure of the average expectable environment and its influence upon child development. Developmental Psychopathology, 3, 129-201.

Dubowitz, H. (2013). Neglect in children. Pediatrics in Review, 34(6), 258-267.

Yehuda, R., Daskalakis, N. P., Lehrner, A., Desarnaud, F., Bader, H. N., Makotkine, I., & Meaney, M. J. (2016). Influences of maternal and paternal PTSD on epigenetic regulation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene in Holocaust survivor offspring. American Journal of Psychiatry, 173(8), 872-880.

Revenge Porn and Non-Consensual Image Sharing: A Digital Violation of Trust

BY: Lorena black

The evolution of digital communication has significantly altered the landscape of intimacy. However, this transformation has also given rise to a troubling phenomenon: the emergence of revenge porn and the non-consensual sharing of images. What was once viewed as a personal issue has now transformed into a disturbing trend, where intimate photos and videos are increasingly being used as instruments of humiliation, blackmail, and manipulation. Individuals affected frequently experience a profound sense of helplessness as their most intimate moments are shared widely, leading to enduring emotional, social, and professional repercussions. In a landscape marked by increasing awareness, the inconsistency of laws persists, allowing tech companies to profit from the exploitation of Victims. Meanwhile, the cultural narrative continues to shift blame onto those whose privacy has been compromised, rather than addressing the actions of the perpetrators themselves.

Revenge porn, which is characterized by the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, represents a significant form of Digital Sexual Abuse that primarily affects women, according to recent findings by Franks in 2023. The phrase "revenge porn" implies a straightforward motive of retaliation from a former partner; however, the truth is much more intricate. Numerous incidents are reported where hacking, coercion, and the unauthorized sharing of private images by strangers occur, often for entertainment or financial profit (Citron & Wittes, 2022). The emergence of platforms facilitating anonymous sharing has intensified the issue, enabling perpetrators to upload explicit content without facing any repercussions. Once an image is shared online, it can quickly proliferate, frequently appearing on adult websites, social media platforms, and even in search engine results associated with the Victim's name.

The psychological and emotional consequences of revenge porn are profound and far-reaching. A 2022 study by Eaton and colleagues highlighted the significant emotional toll on individuals in these circumstances, revealing widespread feelings of shame, anxiety, and depression, and tragically, suicidal ideation in many. In stark contrast to other forms of abuse, where Survivors often seek solace in anonymity, revenge porn guarantees that their suffering remains perpetually available to anyone with access to the internet. Another recent study conducted by Bates in 2023, reveals that a staggering 80% of Victims experienced a profound sense of loss of control over their lives. Additionally, 55% of those surveyed indicated that their exposure had a significant impact on their ability to obtain employment. The issue of leaked intimate images continues to create a significant stigma, leaving Victims feeling increasingly isolated. Many face social ostracization, strained relationships, and, in some cases, threats of physical violence.

Legal responses to revenge porn are proving to be inadequate and inconsistent, varying significantly across different jurisdictions. Countries like the United Kingdom and Australia have taken decisive action by enacting stringent laws that criminalize the act. In contrast, the United States presents a more fragmented landscape, with a mix of state-level regulations that do not offer consistent protection across the board (Goldberg, 2023). Prosecuting these cases presents a significant challenge, primarily due to the burden of proof. Many legal systems necessitate clear evidence of intent to harm, a requirement that can prove difficult to establish. Despite the presence of laws, the enforcement remains inadequate, and the consequences for offenders frequently fall short when measured against the enduring harm suffered by Victims. The 2023 findings from Ruvalcaba and Eaton paint a concerning picture: with less than 10% of revenge porn cases resulting in criminal convictions, Victims are often left with few avenues for justice.

Social media platforms and pornography websites are increasingly implicated in the spread of non-consensual content, raising serious concerns about privacy and consent in the digital age. While there are policies in place that ostensibly ban revenge porn, the reality is that enforcement tends to be weak. Victims frequently find themselves grappling with intricate reporting systems that seem to prioritize user engagement rather than ensuring the protection of those affected (Gerrard & Thornham, 2023). Despite efforts to remove harmful content, it frequently reappears within hours, perpetuating a relentless cycle of victimization. Major platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are facing mounting criticism for their sluggish response in addressing explicit content. This delay has left Victims grappling with the painful experience of reliving their trauma as they strive to erase their digital footprint.

The persistent issue of blame culture continues to pose significant challenges in the fight against revenge porn. In a troubling trend, rather than holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, there is a tendency to shift the blame onto Victims for having taken intimate images to begin with, as highlighted by Franks in 2023. This harmful perspective overlooks the fundamental truth that violations of privacy extend beyond individual choices, focusing instead on the critical issues of consent and personal agency. Individuals should feel empowered to share intimate content with a trusted partner, free from the anxiety of potential public exposure. Accountability rests not with the individual harmed, but rather with those who violate that trust and take advantage of their weaknesses.

Confronting the issue of revenge porn necessitates a comprehensive strategy that encompasses enhanced legislation, improved enforcement mechanisms, and a shift in cultural attitudes. There is a growing call for laws to acknowledge non-consensual image sharing as a significant breach of privacy, with advocates urging stricter penalties for those who commit such acts. Mounting pressure is being placed on tech companies to assume greater accountability for the content hosted on their platforms. Experts are calling for the implementation of proactive measures to detect and eliminate non-consensual material before it has the chance to spread widely. Furthermore, schools must incorporate education on digital consent and ethical online behavior into their curriculums to help prevent future instances of abuse. Public discourse needs to evolve to confront Victim-blaming narratives and uphold the fundamental right to privacy.

Revenge porn transcends the realm of technology, delving into critical issues of power, consent, and control. Unless society addresses the serious issue of non-consensual distribution of intimate images, Victims will remain vulnerable, while those responsible face no repercussions for their actions. Individuals must maintain their dignity and autonomy, regardless of the harmful actions of others. The battle against revenge porn represents a crucial struggle for digital justice, necessitating immediate intervention to prevent further devastation caused by the irresponsible dissemination of personal violations.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

________________________________________________________________

References

Bates, S. (2023). The lasting impact of image-based sexual abuse: Examining victim experiences and social consequences. Journal of Gender, Technology, and Law, 12(3), 78-101. 

Citron, D. K., & Wittes, B. (2022). The failure of digital platforms to prevent image-based sexual abuse. Harvard Law Review, 135(2), 311-345. 

Eaton, A. A., Ruvalcaba, Y., & Marston, C. (2022). Psychological consequences of non-consensual pornography: A review of recent research. Cyberpsychology Review, 9(1), 50-72. 

Franks, M. A. (2023). The fight against revenge porn: Legal battles and the future of digital consent. Oxford University Press.

Gerrard, Y., & Thornham, H. (2023). Content moderation and the failures of social media in addressing revenge porn. Journal of Digital Ethics, 17(4), 88-112. 

Goldberg, R. (2023). A comparative legal analysis of revenge porn laws: Gaps, successes, and future directions. International Review of Law and Technology, 14(2), 133-158. 

Ruvalcaba, Y., & Eaton, A. A. (2023). The legal shortcomings of image-based abuse laws: An empirical examination. Law & Society Journal, 19(2), 99-120.

Doxing and Privacy Violations: The Weaponization of Personal Information

BY: Lorena black

The internet, designed to foster connection and facilitate the sharing of information, has seen a troubling transformation in recent years, as personal data emerges as a tool of exploitation. Doxing, the act of revealing an individual’s private information without their permission, has turned online environments into contentious arenas where the concept of privacy seems elusive. What began as a strategy used by hacking groups has now developed into a pervasive instrument of harassment, intimidation, and real-world violence. Individuals targeted by doxing endure significant repercussions that extend beyond mere online distress. Doxing exposes individuals’ personal information, such as home addresses, phone numbers, employment details, and financial records, with malicious intent to humiliate, threaten, or harm them. As technology continues to evolve and data collection practices become more intrusive, the potential for privacy violations escalates. Meanwhile, legal protections appear to lag, leaving individuals vulnerable and struggling to navigate an ever-more complex landscape of Digital Abuse. 

People frequently portray doxing as a tool for accountability, aimed at revealing wrongdoers, unmasking anonymous individuals, or enhancing transparency in public discussions. In reality, this approach serves as a mechanism for control and retaliation. Many instances of doxing have emerged, showcasing the intentional targeting of individuals rooted in their political beliefs, activism, or professional endeavors, as highlighted by Douglas in 2023. In a troubling trend, doxing campaigns increasingly target journalists, social justice advocates, and public figures. Their personal information is being shared across various platforms, including forums, social media, and even dark web marketplaces. In severe instances, doxing can lead to swatting, a perilous act where someone falsely reports an emergency to authorities, prompting an armed response team to be sent to the Victim’s residence (Chesney & Citron, 2023). 

The repercussions of doxing reach well beyond the confines of the online world. The jeopardized personal security causes significant psychological turmoil for affected individuals. Many individuals are reporting increased levels of anxiety, paranoia, and even symptoms associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), according to recent findings by Marechal and Slayton. The awareness that unknown individuals can get personal information such as one’s home address, workplace, or family details instills a continuous feeling of anxiety. In a troubling trend, many Victims find themselves compelled to change their phone numbers, erase their social media profiles, or even move to new locations to evade ongoing harassment. A recent study conducted by Nissenbaum and Patterson in 2022 reveals that a staggering 67% of individuals who have fallen victim to doxing have reported making substantial alterations to their online behavior. Additionally, the research indicates that 42% of these Victims faced enduring financial or professional repercussions stemming from their exposure. 

In a landscape marked by significant consequences, the practice of doxing continues to operate in an unregulated environment. Although various platforms claim to prohibit sharing personal information, many websites that facilitate sharing doxed information exist beyond the reach of significant legal jurisdictions, complicating efforts to eliminate content once it has been published (Brunton & Nissenbaum, 2023). In nations where legal protections exist, the reality is that enforcement remains notably weak. In the United States, there are laws in place to combat cyber harassment. However, the issue of doxing remains complex, often existing in a gray area where the intent behind the action plays a crucial role in determining its legality, according to experts Chesney and Citron. This loophole enables individuals to assert that they were merely disseminating “publicly available information,” even when the clear intention is to intimidate or provoke harm. 

In today’s digital landscape, the ease with which privacy violations can occur is alarmingly concerning. In today’s digital landscape, the accessibility of personal information has reached concerning levels. Social media platforms, data brokers, and online records have made it surprisingly easy for individuals to obtain sensitive details with just a few clicks. Individuals often leave behind a trail of digital information, such as home addresses in outdated forum posts, phone numbers associated with public profiles, or employment details hidden within corporate websites, that can be assembled by those with harmful intentions (Marechal & Slayton, 2023). Once this information is made public, Victims encounter significant challenges in their efforts to have it removed, as reuploads and mirror sites perpetually disseminate the data across various platforms. 

In the ongoing battle against doxing and violations of digital privacy, experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive, multi-layered strategy. In a pressing call to action, experts are urging social media platforms and internet service providers to take decisive steps in combating the proliferation of doxed content. The emphasis is on the necessity for these companies to enhance their detection and removal protocols, moving away from the current model that places the burden on Victims to report each incident on their own. There is a pressing need for more stringent legislation aimed at ensuring that those who engage in doxing are held accountable, as current legal loopholes often permit such actions to be treated as trivial offenses. Digital literacy programs must focus on educating individuals about the importance of safeguarding their personal information. These initiatives should highlight the dangers associated with oversharing online and offer practical strategies for ensuring privacy is maintained. Employers and law enforcement agencies must receive training to identify doxing as a significant threat, ensuring that protections are in place for individuals who fall victim to such attacks.

Doxing transcends notions of transparency or justice; it fundamentally revolves around themes of control, intimidation, and erasure. The impact is profound, stifling voices, altering lives, and putting individuals in genuine danger. As long as society fails to prioritize digital privacy with the same urgency as physical safety, individuals who fall victim to doxing will persist in enduring the consequences of a system that neglects to safeguard them. The right to privacy must transcend privilege; it should be a fundamental guarantee in our increasingly digital world.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

__________________________________________________________________

References

Brunton, F., & Nissenbaum, H. (2023). Obfuscation: A user’s guide for privacy and protest in the digital age. MIT Press.

Chesney, R., & Citron, D. K. (2023). The challenges of prosecuting doxing: Legal loopholes and the future of online privacy laws. Harvard Law Review, 136(2), 289-314. 

Douglas, S. (2023). The targeting of activists and journalists through doxing campaigns. Journal of Cyber Harassment Studies, 11(3), 67-89. 

Marechal, N., & Slayton, R. (2023). The psychological toll of doxing: Anxiety, trauma, and the fear of being exposed. Cyberpsychology & Society, 9(1), 33-57. 

Nissenbaum, H., & Patterson, M. (2022). Online privacy in the age of data exposure: How doxing is reshaping digital security concerns. Technology & Society Journal, 15(4), 112-138. 

Online Harassment: The Normalization of Digital Abuse

BY: Lorena black

The internet has emerged as a crucial element of contemporary existence, fundamentally influencing how individuals connect, engage in their professions, and articulate their identities. Yet, amid these technological strides, a troubling trend has surfaced—the increasing acceptance of online harassment. What began as a phenomenon often trivialized as “just words on a screen” has now transformed into a widespread form of abuse, inflicting profound psychological and emotional wounds on its Victims. Online harassment, driven by the shield of anonymity and a troubling absence of accountability, has emerged as a pervasive epidemic, leading to severe repercussions for individuals and communities alike. In a world increasingly dominated by technology, society faces ongoing challenges in tackling and preventing this alarming form of digital violence.

Online harassment includes a variety of harmful actions, such as making threats, posting derogatory comments, engaging in cyberbullying, spreading hate speech, and sharing personal information without consent (Jane, 2023). The digital landscape presents a unique challenge, as it enables perpetrators to harass their Victims at any hour and from virtually anywhere, resulting in an experience that can feel both relentless and inescapable. The emergence of social media has intensified the problem, fostering a landscape where individuals are inundated with messages, subjected to manipulation via misinformation, or publicly shamed before large audiences. Harassment is a pervasive issue that transcends demographics, impacting individuals from all walks of life. However, research highlights that marginalized groups, especially women, racial minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals, experience disproportionately high levels of Online Abuse, according to a study by Citron and Franks in 2022.

The psychological toll of online harassment is profound, frequently resembling the consequences of face-to-face abuse. Individuals affected often face increased levels of anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), according to recent findings by Felmlee and colleagues in 2022. The ongoing impact of Digital Abuse can result in significant social isolation, professional challenges, and, in some cases, self-harm. In severe instances, online harassment has been associated with tragic outcomes, including suicides, especially among teenagers and young adults who find it difficult to break free from the unyielding abuse of cyber bullies. A recent study by Kowalski and Limber reveals troubling statistics: nearly 60% of individuals who have faced prolonged online harassment report significant declines in their mental health. Many of these individuals have voiced feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness as a result of their experiences.
One of the most significant hurdles in the fight against online harassment is the lack of decisive action from both social media platforms and legal systems. In a striking revelation, major social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are facing mounting criticism for their inconsistent enforcement of community guidelines that are designed to prohibit abusive behavior. This issue has raised significant concerns among users and experts alike, highlighting the challenges these platforms face in maintaining a safe online environment (Gillespie, 2023). Numerous Victims of harassment report that their complaints are frequently dismissed, leaving perpetrators free to continue their abusive actions without facing any repercussions. The internet's veil of anonymity presents significant challenges to accountability. Individuals can easily establish fake accounts to engage in harassment, making efforts to identify and penalize those responsible for such behavior. Moreover, legislation addressing online harassment is often insufficient across numerous nations, either not recognizing the gravity of the offense or lacking the essential enforcement tools needed to safeguard Victims (Citron, 2023).

Victims of online harassment frequently receive the advice to just ignore the abuse. However, this perspective overlooks the significant real-world consequences of digital violence. For many individuals, stepping away from online spaces is simply not feasible. This is especially true for those whose careers or personal lives are intricately tied to social media and digital communication. Recent studies indicate that online harassment has a significant impact on professionals, activists, and journalists, leading many to either self-censor or exit their respective fields altogether (Jane, 2023). Online Abuse poses a significant challenge to free expression and democracy, as it instills fear in individuals, discouraging them from participating in public discourse due to the threat of retaliation.

Experts agree that a comprehensive strategy is essential to tackle the pressing issue of online harassment. There is a pressing need for social media platforms to enhance their moderation policies, refine their reporting systems, and place a greater emphasis on the safety of Victims rather than merely focusing on engagement metrics. Law enforcement agencies must undergo specialized training to effectively address cases of Digital Abuse, guaranteeing that Victims receive the protection and justice they rightfully deserve. Experts emphasize that educational initiatives must be pivotal in prevention efforts, focusing on instilling digital literacy and promoting responsible online behavior from an early age. Public awareness campaigns play a crucial role in transforming the cultural perception surrounding online harassment, emphasizing that abuse in digital environments is equally damaging as that which occurs in the physical realm.

The increasing acceptance of online harassment highlights a significant shortcoming in our collective response to Digital Abuse. As technology advances, it is imperative that we also enhance our comprehension of the potential threats it brings. Individuals affected by online harassment are calling for more than just hollow assurances from social media platforms and antiquated legal safeguards. The internet should serve as a platform for connection and innovation, rather than a battleground where individuals face unending abuse without accountability. The cycle of online harassment persists, with countless Victims facing the daunting challenge of reclaiming their voices in a society that often turns a deaf ear. Until significant changes are implemented, this troubling trend is likely to endure.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

___________________________________________________________________

References

Citron, D. K. (2023). Hate crimes in cyberspace: A legal response to online harassment. Harvard University Press.

Citron, D. K., & Franks, M. A. (2022). The unequal burden of online abuse: Gender, race, and digital harassment. Journal of Law & Technology, 36(2), 121-145. 

Felmlee, D., Rodis, P., & Francisco, L. (2022). The psychological consequences of online harassment: A review of empirical research. Cyberpsychology Journal, 15(4), 57-74. 

Gillespie, T. (2023). Content moderation and the failures of social media companies. MIT Press.

Jane, E. A. (2023). Misogyny online: The gendered dimensions of digital abuse. Oxford University Press.

Kowalski, R. M., & Limber, S. P. (2023). The mental health impact of online harassment: A longitudinal study. Journal of Digital Psychology, 18(1), 32-50.

Cyberstalking: The Digital Age’s Silent Threat

BY: Lorena black

In a world where technology has transformed communication, we are now facing the emergence of new forms of abuse that accompany these advancements. Cyberstalking, a persistent and intrusive form of online harassment, has emerged as one of the most alarming digital threats in today's interconnected world. In stark contrast to traditional stalking, cyberstalking empowers perpetrators to target their victims around the clock, effectively dismantling the barriers that once safeguarded personal safety. As legal frameworks grapple with the rapid pace of technological advancement, numerous Victims remain ensnared in a relentless cycle of fear, unable to break free from the digital hold of their abusers.

Cyberstalking is characterized by the persistent use of digital platforms, including social media, emails, messaging applications, and even GPS tracking, to intimidate, harass, or threaten a person, according to experts. Abuse can take on various forms, such as a barrage of unwanted messages that may escalate into threats, relentless surveillance of a Victim’s online presence, hacking or impersonating their accounts, revealing personal information—often referred to as doxing—or employing spyware and GPS tracking to exert control over their movements. In stark contrast to traditional physical stalking, which necessitates the presence of the perpetrator, cyberstalking allows abusers to engage in their harmful behavior from afar. The internet's veil of anonymity empowers numerous offenders, enabling them to intensify their actions without the looming threat of swift repercussions, as noted by Pittaro in 2022.

Cyberstalking is not just an online inconvenience; it has profound real-world effects. Individuals affected by these circumstances frequently endure significant emotional and psychological turmoil, characterized by increased anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and, in certain instances, thoughts of self-harm, according to research by Marcum and Higgins from 2022. A pervasive sense of inescapability significantly exacerbates the psychological impact of cyberstalking. Unlike physical harassment, which can sometimes be evaded by simply changing one’s surroundings, the digital nature of cyberstalking means that Victims are relentlessly pursued, no matter where they go. A recent study by Franklin, Menaker, and Watson in 2023 reveals alarming statistics regarding the impact of cyberstalking on Victims. A disturbing 72% of targeted individuals reported feeling unsafe in their own homes, revealing a critical safety crisis. Furthermore, 58% of Victims have taken measures to change their daily routines to evade potential encounters with their stalkers. For countless individuals, the digital landscape has transformed into a confining space—social media platforms, emails, and even online banking services are perceived as potential tools wielded against them.

Cyberstalking is on the rise, and legal frameworks are lagging behind in their response. Numerous jurisdictions continue to depend on antiquated harassment laws that do not adequately tackle the intricate nature of Online Abuse, as highlighted by Choi and Lee in their 2023 study. Numerous obstacles impede effective legal protection, notably the anonymity of offenders, complicating prosecution efforts. Additionally, cross-jurisdictional challenges arise, as many stalkers function on an international scale. Furthermore, insufficient training among law enforcement personnel frequently results in the tendency to blame Victims or disregard their complaints. A 2022 study conducted by Kowalski, Giumetti, Schroeder, and Lattanner revealed that a mere 38% of individuals who experienced cyberstalking believed that law enforcement treated their cases with the seriousness they deserved. Alarmingly, fewer than 10% of these Victims witnessed any prosecution of their stalkers. Many Victims of cyberstalking find themselves grappling with a legal system that seems ill-equipped to provide the protection they desperately need, leaving them feeling vulnerable and without recourse.

As legal systems continue to fall short, Victims must take proactive measures to protect themselves. Experts suggest that by adjusting privacy settings and limiting the amount of personal information shared online, individuals can enhance their protection against digital threats. Maintaining comprehensive documentation of every message, threat, and interaction could prove to be vital evidence in potential legal cases. Experts emphasize that enhancing online security is crucial. Implementing two-factor authentication, routinely updating passwords, and utilizing anti-spyware tools are effective measures to thwart potential intrusions. It is crucial to seek legal advice, particularly because certain states have enacted cyberstalking statutes that could be relevant, even though enforcement may vary significantly. Victims must break the silence surrounding their experiences. Seeking professional counseling or connecting with advocacy groups can offer essential emotional and legal support in these challenging times.

Cyberstalking is not just an individual problem; it is a systemic issue that requires stronger legislation, better enforcement, and increased digital literacy. Social media platforms and technology companies are urged to take on greater accountability, given their significant influence in establishing more stringent policies aimed at curbing online harassment. Additionally, there is a pressing need for these companies to enhance the accessibility of tools available for Victims to report abuse. As society grapples with the implications of cyberstalking, it is crucial to recognize that countless Victims remain in the shadows, their cries for help often silenced by the very technology designed to connect us. Without a comprehensive acknowledgment of this issue, suffering will persist.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

Choi, K. S., & Lee, J. R. (2023). Legal frameworks for cyberstalking: A comparative analysis of international policies. Journal of Cybersecurity Studies, 9(2), 112-130. 

Franklin, C. A., Menaker, T. A., & Watson, A. R. (2023). The impact of cyberstalking on victims' mental health and personal security. Victimology Review, 17(1), 45-63. 

Kowalski, R. M., Giumetti, G. W., Schroeder, A. N., & Lattanner, M. R. (2022). The (in)effectiveness of law enforcement responses to cyberstalking. Crime & Law Journal, 14(4), 201-225. 

Marcum, C. D., & Higgins, G. E. (2022). The dark side of social media: Psychological effects of cyberstalking and harassment. Journal of Digital Crime & Psychology, 11(3), 90-108. 

Pittaro, M. L. (2022). The evolution of cyberstalking and its implications for criminology. Journal of Online Criminal Behavior, 15(2), 67-83. Reyns, B. W. (2023). Understanding cyberstalking behaviors and patterns: A criminological perspective. Cybercrime Research Review, 8(1), 15-32.

The Tragic Case of Gabby Petito: Uncovering the Abuse That Led to Her Murder

BY: Lorena black

In 2021, the case of Gabby Petito's disappearance and subsequent murder captivated the nation, leading to extensive media attention and public scrutiny. As new information comes to light, it is evident that her heartbreaking death represents the tragic end of a cycle of abuse that had remained overlooked and unaddressed. This case has brought to light the critical issues surrounding Domestic Violence, highlighting the gaps in law enforcement's response and the significant impact of social media in contemporary investigations (Levitt, 2025).

A Dream Road Trip Takes a Sinister Turn 

Gabrielle "Gabby" Petito, a 22-year-old travel blogger from Blue Point, New York, set off on a cross-country van adventure alongside her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, in July 2021. Their journey, captured through the lens of Instagram and YouTube, showcased an adventurous young couple as they explored the breathtaking landscapes of national parks (Sederstrom, 2024). Yet, beneath the polished surface of these curated posts exists a troubling truth—characterized by control, manipulation, and a rise in abuse. 

Indicators of Concern

On August 12, 2021, authorities in Moab, Utah, were alerted to a 911 call reporting a domestic dispute involving Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie. A witness has come forward, stating they observed Laundrie physically assaulting Petito before the couple drove away. In a revealing moment captured on body camera footage, Gabby can be seen visibly distressed, sobbing as she takes responsibility for the altercation. In stark contrast, Laundrie maintains a calm and composed demeanor. Authorities have determined that the situation was a "mental health crisis" rather than an instance of Domestic Violence. The couple was separated for the night, but no arrests were made (ABC7 Los Angeles, 2021).

Experts have identified this interaction as a clear example of coercive control, a situation in which an abuser skillfully manipulates their Victim into feeling responsible for the abuse. Gabby’s emotional apologies, visible bruises, and self-critical remarks raised significant concerns that were overlooked (Romano, 2021).

A Disturbing Trend of Domination and Seclusion 

In a developing story, friends and family members have come forward to share concerning insights into the couple's relationship. Reports indicate that Laundrie exhibited controlling behavior, frequently isolating Gabby from her loved ones and restricting her capacity to make decisions. Reports indicate that he took her identification to restrict her movements and was recognized for having aggressive outbursts (Reilly, 2021).

The Wyoming Restaurant Witness Reports

Several Wyoming restaurant witnesses saw that Laundrie confronted the staff with anger, while Gabby was seen to be visibly shaken and in tears (Harris, 2021). Experts indicate that these behaviors align with established patterns of Emotional and Psychological Abuse, which frequently escalate into physical violence (Haile, 2025). In a heartbreaking turn of events, Gabby chose to stay with Laundrie, a situation that reflects the grim reality faced by numerous Victims of Domestic Abuse who often find themselves ensnared in harmful relationships. 

Capturing The Attention of The Public and Police 

On September 1, 2021, Laundrie was seen returning to Florida by himself, driving the couple's van. He declined to comment on Gabby’s location, leading to heightened concern among her family as they had not heard from her. On September 11, authorities reported her missing, igniting a nationwide search effort (6abc Philadelphia, 2021).

In a tragic development, authorities have discovered the remains of Gabby in the Bridger-Teton National Forest located in Wyoming, just days after she was reported missing. The autopsy findings indicate that she was strangled to death, a method frequently associated with intimate partner violence (Reed, 2021). Experts emphasize that strangulation serves as one of the most significant indicators of potential homicide in cases of Domestic Abuse.

In a shocking turn of events, Brian Laundrie's final confession has come to light, raising numerous questions and stirring intense public interest. The details surrounding this revelation are both compelling and tragic, as the narrative unfolds in the wake of a highly publicized investigation (Thorne, 2022). As the story develops, many are left to ponder the implications of this confession and what it means for those involved.

As the nation focused its attention on the search for Laundrie, he made his way into Florida’s Carlton Reserve. On October 20, 2021, authorities uncovered skeletal remains alongside a notebook containing a confession to the murder of Gabby. The cause of death was officially determined to be suicide, according to sources (Migoya, 2022).

The Enduring Influence of the Case 

The case of Gabby Petito has sparked a nationwide conversation regarding Domestic Violence and the critical role of law enforcement in preventing similar tragedies in the future. Many criticized the Moab police for failing to recognize the warning signs of abuse, arguing that an arrest or intervention could have saved Gabby’s life (NBCUniversal News Group, 2022). The case brings to the forefront the stark contrast in media attention given to missing white women compared to missing persons of color, a phenomenon often referred to as "Missing White Woman Syndrome” (Rosner, 2021).

In response, Gabby’s family created the Gabby Petito Foundation to raise awareness about Domestic Violence and help other Victims escape abusive situations (Gabby Petito Alliance, 2025). Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need to identify and confront the warning signs of abuse before it becomes too late. 

Conclusion

The tragic murder of Gabby Petito exposed the hidden realities of Domestic Abuse and the systemic failures that allow it to continue. While her case captured the world's attention, it is only one of many. As awareness grows, advocates hope that Gabby’s legacy will lead to meaningful changes in how Domestic Violence cases are handled—before another life is lost.

We support your healing journey toward complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

Levitt, B. (2025, February 17). The true story behind American Murder: Gabby Petito. Time. https://time.com/7252972/american-murder-gabby-petito-true-story-netflix/ 

Sederstrom, J. (2024, November 7). The Gabby Petito-Brian-Laundrie case, explained. NBC Insider Official Site. https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/gabby-petito-brian-laundrie-case-details 

911 call reveals Brian Laundrie slapped Gabby Petito during dispute in Utah, according to a witness. ABC7 Los Angeles. (2021, September 20). https://abc7.com/gabby-petito-911-call-brian-laundrie-what-happened-to/11033302/ 

Romano, A. (2021, November 2). How to prevent another death like Gabby Petito’s. Vox. https://www.vox.com/culture/22758030/gabby-petito-domestic-intimate-partner-violence-prevention 

Reilly, P. (2021, September 20). Brian Laundrie was controlling, suffered “episodes,” Gabby Petito’s friend says. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2021/09/17/brian-laundrie-was-controlling-had-episodes-gabby-petito-pal/ 

Harris, C. (2021, September 23). Witnesses say Brian Laundrie was “aggressive” toward restaurant staff, Gabby Petito apologized: Report. People.com. https://people.com/crime/brian-laundrie-allegedly-aggressive-restaurant-staff-report/ 

Haile, N. (2025, February 19). Gabby Petito’s case reveals how easily Domestic Violence warning signs can be overlooked. Salon. https://www.salon.com/2025/02/19/gabby-petitos-case-reveals-how-easily-domestic-violence-warning-signs-can-be-overlooked/ 

Brian Laundrie flew home and then back to Utah in middle of road trip with Gabby Petito. 6abc Philadelphia. (2021, October 6). https://6abc.com/gabby-petito-update-brian-laundrie-flew-home-news-cause-of-death/11089182/#:~:text=A%20massive%20search%20is%20continuing,of%20interest%22%20in%20Petito’s%20disappearance. 

Reed, B. (2021, October 12). Gabby Petito was strangled to death, Wyoming officials say after autopsy. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/12/gabby-petito-autopsy-results-wyoming-brian-laundrie-florida 

Migoya, V. (2022, January 21). FBI Denver provides final investigative update on Gabrielle Petito Case. FBI. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/denver/news/press-releases/fbi-denver-provides-final-investigative-update-on-gabrielle-petito-case 

NBCUniversal News Group. (2022, November 3). Gabby Petito’s family alleges Utah officers ignored signs of violence they should have been trained to notice. NBCNews.com. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/gabby-petitos-family-alleges-utah-officers-ignored-signs-violence-trai-rcna55538 

Rosner, H. (2021, October 8). The long american history of “missing white woman syndrome.” The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/the-long-american-history-of-missing-white-woman-syndrome 

Examining the Disparities in Assistance for Homeless Men

BY: Lorena black

Homelessness remains a significant social issue affecting millions of individuals worldwide. However, while various programs exist to support specific groups within the homeless population—such as women, children, and families—single men, who constitute the majority of the unhoused population, often face unique challenges in accessing assistance. Some researchers argue that systemic biases in social services and policy structures contribute to a lack of adequate resources for homeless men, raising questions about whether societal perceptions of gender influence the distribution of aid (Barrow & Laborde, 2008). Understanding these disparities requires an examination of statistical trends, shelter policies, and the broader implications of gendered approaches to homelessness assistance.

Homelessness and Gender Disparities in Assistance

Studies consistently show that men make up the majority of the homeless population. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD, 2023), approximately 70% of individuals experiencing homelessness are male. Despite this, a significant portion of funding and shelter space is allocated to women, families, and specialized populations such as domestic violence survivors (Shinn & Khadduri, 2020). While these targeted interventions are crucial, critics suggest that the relative lack of gender-neutral or male-focused services may leave a substantial portion of the homeless population with fewer resources (Tucker, 2021).

For instance, research indicates that single men face more barriers in accessing emergency shelters and transitional housing compared to women and families (Culhane et al., 2013). Some programs prioritize women and children due to perceptions of heightened vulnerability, while single men are often expected to rely on general emergency shelters that may have limited capacity or stricter entry requirements (Herring, 2019). Additionally, men experiencing homelessness are more likely to have interactions with law enforcement due to policies that criminalize street homelessness, further complicating their ability to access stable housing (Gowan, 2010).

The Role of Gender Norms in Homelessness Assistance

Scholars have examined how traditional gender roles influence homelessness policy and public perceptions. Historically, men have been viewed as self-reliant and responsible for their own economic stability, while women are more likely to be perceived as needing protection and support (Connell, 2005). These social expectations may contribute to policies that prioritize assistance for women and families while offering fewer tailored resources for single men (Barrow & Laborde, 2008).

Furthermore, shelters and social service programs often cater to specific demographics based on perceived risk. For example, domestic violence shelters primarily serve women, despite research indicating that men can also be victims of intimate partner violence (Douglas & Hines, 2011). Similarly, family shelters frequently provide resources for single mothers, whereas single fathers may face greater difficulties in securing stable housing (Rollings et al., 2019). These gaps suggest a need for a more comprehensive approach to homelessness assistance that considers the diverse experiences of all individuals.

Policy Considerations and Potential Solutions

Addressing disparities in homelessness assistance requires policy changes that ensure equitable access to resources for all individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Expanding shelter capacity for single men, implementing gender-inclusive domestic violence services, and increasing outreach programs that specifically target male homelessness are potential strategies for bridging these gaps (Shinn & Khadduri, 2020). Additionally, scholars advocate for a shift in public discourse to recognize homelessness as a complex issue that affects individuals of all genders, rather than primarily a women’s or family-centered issue (Tucker, 2021).

Efforts to reduce homelessness must also address underlying factors such as mental health, substance use, and employment barriers, which affect both men and women but may present differently across demographics (Herring, 2019). By developing policies that take a more inclusive and need-based approach, social services can work toward providing equitable support for all individuals experiencing homelessness.

While women, children, and families receive significant attention in homelessness policy, single men—who make up the majority of the homeless population—often face challenges in accessing assistance. Research suggests that social perceptions of gender may influence the availability and distribution of resources, leading to gaps in services for homeless men. Addressing these disparities requires a shift toward more inclusive policies that provide equitable support for all individuals experiencing homelessness, regardless of gender. Future studies should continue to examine the intersections of homelessness, policy, and gender norms to ensure that assistance programs effectively meet the needs of diverse populations.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

Barrow, S. M., & Laborde, N. D. (2008). Invisible mothers: Parenting by homeless women separated from their children. Gender Issues, 25(3), 157-172. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12147-008-9059-2

Connell, R. W. (2005). Masculinities (2nd ed.). University of California Press.

Culhane, D. P., Metraux, S., & Byrne, T. (2013). A prevention-centered approach to homelessness assistance: A paradigm shift? Housing Policy Debate, 23(1), 232-246. https://doi.org/10.1080/10511482.2013.767085

Douglas, E. M., & Hines, D. A. (2011). The help-seeking experiences of men who sustain intimate partner violence: An overlooked population and implications for practice. Journal of Family Violence, 26(6), 473-485. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-011-9382-4

Gowan, T. (2010). Hobos, hustlers, and backsliders: Homeless in San Francisco. University of Minnesota Press.

Herring, C. (2019). Between street and shelter: Seclusion, exclusion, and the neutralization of poverty. American Sociological Review, 84(1), 120-147. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003122418820711

Rollings, K. A., Bolger, K. E., & Teague, S. T. (2019). Family instability, housing insecurity, and child maltreatment: Examining the role of fathers in the home. Child Maltreatment, 24(2), 203-212. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077559518819853

Shinn, M., & Khadduri, J. (2020). In the Midst of Plenty: Homelessness and What to Do About It. Wiley.

Tucker, J. (2021). Rethinking homeless services: Addressing the gender gap in aid distribution. Social Service Review, 95(2), 267-290. https://doi.org/10.1086/714612

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2023). Annual homelessness assessment report to Congress. https://www.huduser.gov/portal/home.html

The Vagabond: Those Who Choose to Live Outside Society—and the Abuse They Face

BY: Lorena black

When we think of homelessness, we often imagine people who have fallen into hard times, struggling with job loss, mental health challenges, or housing insecurity. However, there is another kind of homeless population that does not fit this narrative. These are the vagabonds—the people who do not just end up outside of society but actively choose to live there. They are not looking for reintegration, a stable job, or a permanent home. Instead, they carve out their own paths, resisting societal norms and living on the fringes by choice.

But for many vagabonds, this choice comes at a cost. Living outside the boundaries of society makes them vulnerable to violence, police harassment, public hostility, and systemic neglect. Despite their independence, they often face abuse simply for existing in a way that challenges social norms. Understanding this abuse, as well as the deeper cultural and historical roots of vagabondage, is crucial in shifting the way we approach homelessness and human rights.

Why Live as a Vagabond?

For some, the choice to leave society is not about poverty or bad luck; it is about freedom. Modern civilization comes with rules, jobs, rent, and social expectations that do not appeal to everyone. Some vagabonds reject these pressures and find alternative ways to live. Others might feel that society has rejected them first, and instead of trying to fit back in, they choose to operate outside of it entirely.

Scott (1985) explores how marginalized people resist authority in subtle but effective ways. Vagabonds do this every day—by squatting in abandoned buildings, scavenging for food instead of buying it, or setting up temporary communities that evade law enforcement. They are not just "off the grid" in a trendy, minimalist way; they are making a statement, whether intentional or not, about their refusal to conform.

The Abuse and Violence Vagabonds Face

Rejecting society does not mean society rejects you back quietly. For vagabonds, the choice to live outside mainstream systems often makes them targets of abuse—both by institutions and by individuals who see them as a problem rather than people.

Police Harassment and Criminalization

One of the biggest threats vagabonds face is law enforcement. Many cities have strict anti-homelessness laws that make everyday survival—sleeping outside, setting up tents, or even sitting in certain public spaces—a crime. Anti-vagrancy laws have existed for centuries, dating back to colonial rule and the post-slavery era, when they were used to control and punish those who lived outside of societal norms (Scott, 1985). Today, these laws continue to push vagabonds into dangerous situations, forcing them into hiding or subjecting them to police brutality.

Scott (1985) describes how marginalized groups develop quiet but intentional resistance to oppressive systems. Many vagabonds resist police control by constantly moving, hiding their camps, or using coded networks to communicate safe spaces. But even with these strategies, the reality is that police violence against homeless populations is rampant, often going unpunished due to public indifference or outright hostility.

Public Hostility and Violence

Vagabonds do not just face systemic abuse—they also deal with violence from everyday people. Assaults on homeless individuals are shockingly common, with reports of physical attacks, harassment, and even murders. Because vagabonds are often seen as outsiders or "less than" by mainstream society, some people view them as easy targets. Hate crimes against homeless individuals are often overlooked, with perpetrators facing little to no consequences (Turnbull, 1961).

Turnbull (1961) examines how communities with different social structures—such as hunter-gatherers—often face hostility when they come into contact with more dominant groups. This idea applies to vagabonds as well. Their way of life challenges the economic and social structures that most people are accustomed to, leading to fear, misunderstanding, and aggression.

Exploitation and Systemic Neglect

Beyond physical violence, vagabonds are also at risk of exploitation. Many are targeted by predators who know they have few legal protections. Unhoused women and LGBTQ+ vagabonds, in particular, face high rates of sexual violence, often with no access to justice. Additionally, medical care is difficult to access, and many doctors dismiss or refuse to treat those without a stable address (Mauss, 1990).

Mauss (1990) explores how alternative economies based on giving and reciprocity function in many societies. Vagabonds often rely on informal networks to survive—sharing resources, food, and protection. But when these networks break down or become strained, they are left without options. Society’s neglect of them only deepens their vulnerability, reinforcing a cycle of abuse and deprivation.

A Different Kind of Community

Despite the violence they face, vagabonds do not always live in isolation. Many form small, transient communities that operate on shared resources and mutual support. This mirrors the way some indigenous and nomadic groups have lived for centuries. Turnbull (1961) details how the Mbuti, a hunter-gatherer society in Central Africa, thrive through mobility and collective care rather than rigid societal structures.

Similarly, vagabonds create their own support systems. They share knowledge about where to find food, how to evade law enforcement, and where to seek medical care when needed. While mainstream society often sees them as isolated, their social structures are just different, built on survival, trust, and the ability to move freely rather than on money and stability.

Should We Try to “Fix” Vagabonds?

Many outreach programs for the homeless focus on reintegration—helping people secure jobs, housing, and stability—but this approach assumes that every unhoused person wants the same outcome. For vagabonds, reintegration is not always the goal. They are not necessarily looking to be "rescued" or placed into conventional housing programs. What they need is support that respects their autonomy and acknowledges their way of life rather than trying to force them into a system they have consciously rejected. Instead of pushing for assimilation, cities should focus on harm reduction by decriminalizing survival activities such as sleeping in public spaces, creating designated encampments where vagabonds can live without constant displacement, expanding healthcare access through mobile clinics that do not require a fixed address, and ensuring that crimes against vagabonds are taken seriously by the legal system. These solutions recognize the reality that some individuals will always choose to live outside of mainstream society, and instead of punishing them for it, we should work toward providing protection that allows them to live with dignity and security.

Vagabonds challenge our ideas about homelessness, survival, and choice. They are not necessarily victims, nor are they criminals; they are people who have chosen a different way of living, even if it is hard for the rest of society to understand. But choosing to live outside society should not mean accepting abuse. Anthropological studies, from Mauss’s theories on alternative economies to Scott’s research on resistance, show us that there have always been people who reject mainstream systems in favor of self-sufficiency.

Instead of forcing them into rigid social structures they do not want, we should be asking, 'How can we support them while respecting their way of life?' Ultimately, everyone deserves safety, dignity, and the right to exist on their own terms, without judgement.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types, including narcissism, sexual, physical, psychological, financial, child, self, cyberbullying (including online abuse), bullying, spousal, workplace, elderly, isolation, religious, medical, food, authority, educational, child sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, political, and weather, and we've added six services and protocols, including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, educators, police, prisons, suicide, and military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve victims and survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a live stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

Mauss, M. (1990). The gift: The form and reason for exchange in archaic societies (W. D. Halls, Trans.). W.W. Norton & Company. (Original work published 1925)

Scott, J. C. (1985). Weapons of the weak: Everyday forms of peasant resistance. Yale University Press.

Turnbull, C. M. (1961). The forest people: A study of the Pygmies of the Congo. Simon & Schuster.

Law Enforcement and the Abuse of Power: Police Misconduct and Your Rights

BY: amanda hildreth

Police misconduct, often perceived through the lens of media portrayals of excessive force and unnecessary shootings, is a serious issue. The advent of smartphone recording has exposed instances of officers abusing their power and violating civil rights. While the majority of officers serve their communities honorably, the actions of some undermine public trust.

What is Police Misconduct or Abuse of Power?

Police misconduct can manifest in various ways, making it difficult to identify, particularly in high-pressure situations. Examples include excessive force, unlawful arrests, and the abuse of inmates. Broadly defined, it is any inappropriate or unreasonable action by an officer during their duties that infringes upon an individual's constitutional rights (Civil Rights Litigation Group, 2024).

Police misconduct or abuse of power may include (Civil Rights Litigation Group, 2024):

• Unlawful stops that violate the Fourth Amendment: You have the right to refuse unreasonable searches, including during police stops. For the police to stop you they must have a valid reason and reasonable suspicion that a crime or traffic violation has occurred. Your detention must be limited to the reason for the initial stop. If you have not committed a crime, you have the right to continue on your way.

• Racial profiling or discrimination that violates the Fourth or Fourteenth Amendments: When an officer searches, stops, or arrests you based on your race, they are violating your civil rights. It is also a violation of your civil rights for police to stop you due to your gender, sexual orientation, or other characteristics.
  
• Unlawful search or seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment:  The Fourth Amendment gives citizens freedom from unreasonable intrusion by the government, including the police. Unlawful searches can happen when an officer searches your vehicle, home, or you without probable cause. If an officer asks to search your property or you, you have the right to say no.
  
• Unlawful, false, or wrongful arrest violating the Fourth Amendment: An unlawful arrest occurs when law enforcement seizes and restrains you in a way that leaves you without the belief that you can leave, without having legal justification to arrest you. Law enforcement needs probable cause or a warrant based on probable cause to arrest you. If you are arrested without a warrant or cause, it is against your civil rights. 

• Depriving you of your Fourteenth Amendment Rights without Due Process: United States citizens are guaranteed equal protection under law and law enforcement and the government cannot deprive you of life, property, or liberty without fair law procedures including the right to certain hearings, the right to confront your accusers, the right to a lawyer and other rights that fall under this amendment.
  
• First Amendment suppression or retaliation: The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion, press, and speech, to assemble or petition and to record law enforcement while they are performing public duties. If law enforcement attempts to suppress your verbal expression or retaliates against you due to something you have said, they may be violating your civil rights.
  
• Malicious prosecution violating the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments: Lawful prosecutions require evidence that amounts to probable cause at the time charges are raised against an individual. If law enforcement charges you with a crime as a means of harassment, in an attempt to justify police misconduct or to ruin your reputation, they are violating your civil rights. They may also violate your rights by creating false information to create probable cause to justify your arrest or seek a warrant for an arrest.
  
• Excessive force: Law enforcement must be reasonable in the force that is applied so that force is used only when necessary for a lawful purpose. Force is acceptable when law enforcement uses it to arrest a wanted person. Law enforcement's authorized use of force during an arrest can escalate if the individual flees, resists, or threatens an officer. Otherwise, their use of force is limited.
  
• Deadly force or Prison Abuse in violation of the Fourth or Eighth Amendments: When someone dies due to excessive force or other misconduct by law enforcement one of the worst civil rights violations occurs. This may involve anything from illegal shooting to denying an inmate access to medical care or abusing an inmate.

How Widespread is the Problem of Law Enforcement Abuse of Power?

While some studies indicate that the use of force by American law enforcement is relatively infrequent, other research suggests that when force is employed, there is a significant risk of escalation to excessive force. In a 1996 study examining 5,688 cases from 1977 police services, reasonable force was recorded in 37 cases (0.65%), while improper force was used in 23 cases (0.40%). Therefore, of the instances where force was employed, about 38% were classified as improper.  (Weisburd,  Greenspan, Hamilton, Williams & Bryant, 2000).

While the overall use of force by law enforcement is a subject of ongoing debate, data indicates a significant increase in police-involved fatalities in recent years. In 2020, there were 1,021 fatal police shootings nationwide, resulting in the deaths of 457 Caucasian individuals and 241 African American individuals. Notably, less than 1% of the officers involved were charged with a criminal offense. Studies have shown that African Americans are 3.5 times more likely than Caucasians to be killed by law enforcement when unarmed and not attacked. Additionally, research suggests a higher prevalence of police use of force in predominantly African American communities.  (Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC, 2025). 

A 2019 study found that law enforcement violence is the leading cause of death among young men in the United States. Another 2019 study found that a police officer’s ethnicity predicted the ethnicity of those killed in over 900 incidents  (Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC, 2025). 

Law Enforcement Attitudes Toward Abuse of Power

The Institute of Justice conducted a study in which officers were surveyed about their views on use of force and their observations of fellow officers' behavior. . Their responses showed that most law enforcement officers in the United States disapproved of the use of excessive force, however, a substantial minority believed that law enforcement officers should be permitted to use more force than the force that the law permits and found it to be acceptable to occasionally use more force than legally permitted (Weisburd,  Greenspan, Hamilton, Williams & Bryant, 2000).

Though an overwhelming 97.1% of surveyed officers believed serious misconduct was extremely rare, a concerning 22% admitted to witnessing excessive force within their departments. Adding to this disparity, while over 90% disapproved of physical force in response to verbal abuse, nearly 15% indicated that such behavior occurred at least sometimes. (Weisburd,  Greenspan, Hamilton, Williams & Bryant, 2000).

Steps to Take if You Experience Law Enforcement Misconduct

If you believe you have been a victim of law enforcement misconduct or abuse of power, taking the following steps can help you protect your rights (Ouritski, 2024).

• Document the event: Write down everything you remember about the event as soon as possible. Include details such as time, location, names of officers involved, and if there were any witnesses. If you were injured, seek medical attention and document your injuries with medical records and photographs.

• Gather evidence: Collect all available evidence such as photos, video, and witness statements. If there were security cameras nearby, request the footage. The more evidence you can present, the stronger your case will be. 

• File a report: Report any misconduct to the police department’s internal affairs or review board. Filing a complaint creates an official record of the event.
  
• Consult with a lawyer, if possible: Contact an experienced civil rights lawyer who specializes in law enforcement misconduct cases, if possible. They can provide you with valuable guidance on your legal options.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 28 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

Police misconduct: A practical guide. Civil Rights Litigation Group. (2024, January 30). https://www.rightslitigation.com/2024/01/30/police-misconduct-a-practical-guide/ 

Weisburd, D., Greenspan, R., Hamilton, E. E., Williams, H., & Bryant, K. A. (2000, May). Police attitudes toward abuse of authority. https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/181312.pdf 

Police abuse of power statistics (6 names you know). Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC. (2025). https://www.rosenfeldinjurylaw.com/chicago-police-brutality-lawyer/statistics/

Ouritski, N. (2024, August 28). Legal recourse for victims of police misconduct and abuse. https://alanripka.com/legal-recourse-for-victims-of-police-misconduct-and-abuse/ 

Abuse In Prisons: Speaking Up For Incarcerated Individuals

BY: amanda hildreth

There are currently 2.3 million people in the United States prison system, the highest number of any country in the world. Physical and Sexual Abuse by inmates and prison staff occurs frequently. It can have lasting effects on Victims, increasing the rate of recurring crimes, mental health issues, and psychological and physical effects (The Legal Examiner, 2022). 

In some cases, inmates are abused for years. They may not speak up due to threats made by their abuser, the fear of further abuse, or the fear of confinement or loss of privileges (The Legal Examiner, 2022). 

Who Abuses Inmates?

Prisons are often shown in the media as violent and unsafe due to aggressive and dangerous inmates. While Physical and Sexual Abuse among inmates occurs worldwide, prison staff are also responsible for inmate abuse (The Legal Examiner, 2022).

A study of 7,000 inmates in 12 state prisons found that 21% of Physical Abuse cases were perpetrated by staff and 19% by other inmates. (The Legal Examiner, 2022). 

When prison staff abuse inmates, the abuse of power leads to extensive problems in the prison system. Whether officials at the prison ignore violence among inmates and staff, threaten Victims who attempt to report abuse, or demean those experiencing abuse, negative impacts on prison safety, culture, and the rehabilitation process often occur (The Legal Examiner, 2022). 

What Inmates Are At Risk For Abuse?

Those abused in prisons include a variety of genders, races, and ages, however, certain groups of inmates are at a higher risk of experiencing Physical or Sexual Abuse. 

Women experience higher overall rates of Sexual Abuse within prisons. Rates of inmate-on-inmate Sexual Abuse were four times higher for women than men (Wolff, Blitz, Shi, Bachman & Siegel, 2006).

The United States Department of Justice found that 68.6% of Sexual Abuse in prisons occurred at the hands of correctional officers, often in program service areas such as storage areas, commissaries, or a kitchen. They also found that inmates of private prisons are only half as likely to experience Sexual Abuse by other inmates as those who are incarcerated in public prisons (Beck, Rantala & Rexroat, 2014). 

Transgender individuals are also targeted by prison staff and inmates. They are often mocked, denied rights, and experience increased instances of Sexual Abuse (The Legal Examiner, 2022). Advocates for Trans Equality found that transgender individuals in prisons are ten times more likely to experience Sexual Abuse at the hands of other inmates and five times more likely to experience abuse at the hands of prison staff than non-transgender individuals. Transgender individuals often experience additional challenges in prison including long stays in solitary confinement and the denial of medical care (A4TE., 2024). 

Inmates with disabilities often experience higher rates of Physical and Emotional Abuse in prisons. Inmates with disabilities are four times more likely than those without to experience abuse (Harrell, 2021).

While cognitive disabilities including Down syndrome, autism, and learning disorders affect one-fourth of inmates, visual, hearing and ambulatory disabilities are common and individuals with these disabilities are often overlooked. Around 40% of state-imprisoned inmates have a disability with 50% of women in state prisons being disabled. Those at the highest risk of abuse are individuals with intellectual disabilities (Rubac, 2024).

What Type of Abuses Do Inmates Experience?

The most common type of abuse experienced by inmates is Physical Abuse. Violence in prison refers to acts resulting in the injury of a person within the prison and is prevalent among male and female inmate populations. It is estimated that 20% of inmates experience violence while incarcerated and around 8% of deaths that occur in prisons can be attributed to Physical Abuse and violence (DeCooman, 2023).

In addition to the horrors of physical and sexual abuse, inmates endure food deprivation, solitary confinement, unsanitary conditions, and a denial of essential medical care.

Food deprivation, solitary confinement, and unsanitary conditions can incentivize inmates to work harder or engage in sexual acts to improve their circumstances.  The desire for stable food and conditions is a basic human need and prison systems often exploit this desire. Inmates are often forced to perform transactions with staff members including trading work or sexual favors for extra food or better conditions (Simmons, 2024).

A recent report based on government data found that around 6% of the United States prison population had experienced solitary confinement. This practice is most commonly used for people ages 26 to 35 and is associated with an increased risk of self-harm, negative post-release outcomes, and long-lasting psychological harm (Ortiz, 2023).

What Can We Do to Prevent Abuse in Prisons?

To prevent abuse in prisons there are several key strategies that we must take. 

Key strategies include (Dholakia, 2023, La Vigne, Debus- Sherrill, Brazzell & Downey, 2011):

• Thorough staff training and vetting
• Independent investigations
• Proper use of force policies that enforce accountability
• Increased monitoring through the use of cameras
• Addressing the issue of prison overcrowding
• Providing proper mental health services for inmates and staff
• Providing inmates with access to legal help
• Fostering a culture of reporting abuse without fear of retaliation
• Working toward reducing the overall prison population through policy changes and alternative sentencing

Specific actions that can be taken involve (Dholakia, 2023, La Vigne, Debus- Sherrill, Brazzell & Downey, 2011, Kiriakou, 2024, Dallao, 1996):

• Comprehensive staff training on de-escalation techniques, proper use of force, and conflict resolution
• Background checks of staff
• Regular refresher courses on prison policy
• Utilizing independent inspector general offices to investigate abuse allegations
• Completing thorough investigations of abuse complaints including interviews of witnesses
• Taking disciplinary action against staff who are found to have engaged in abuse
• Employing extensive camera systems in cell blocks and common areas
• Regular monitoring of camera systems by staff, including unannounced checks
• Providing adequate access to basic needs for inmates such as hygiene products, food, and medical care
• Provide inmates with easy access to legal representation and procedures to report abuse
• Provide safe spaces for inmates to report abuse without the fear of retaliation
• Provide accessible mental health assessments and treatments for inmates
• Train staff to identify and respond to the mental health crisis of an inmate
• Provide educational and vocational programs that prepare inmates to reintegrate into society
• Provide positive reinforcement for positive behavior among inmates
• Prioritize respect for inmates and actively discourage abuse

When we take these actions in our prisons we can ensure that inmates are properly taken care of and that they feel seen and heard, which will encourage them to report abuse and prevent future abuse.

We support your healing journey towards complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 22 different abuse types including Narcissism, Sexual, Physical, Psychological, Financial, Child, Self, Cyberbullying (Including Online Abuse), Bullying, Spousal, Workplace, Elderly, Isolation, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, Political, Weather and we've added six services and protocols including Norm Therapy® for PTSD, Educators, Police, Prisons, Suicide, and Military. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

The Legal Examiner. (2022, August 5). Inmate abuse in U.S. prison facilities. The Legal Examiner. https://www.legalexaminer.com/category/legal/inmate-abuse/ 

Wolff, N., Blitz, C. L., Shi, J., Bachman, R., & Siegel, J. A. (2006, September). Sexual violence inside prisons: Rates of victimization. Journal of urban health : bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2438589/ 

Beck, A. J., Rantala, R. R., & Rexroat, J. (2014, January). Sexual victimization reported by adult correctional Authorities, 2009–11. U.S. Department of Justice. https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/svraca0911.pdf 

Police, Jails & Prisons. A4TE. (2024). https://transequality.org/issues/police-jails-prisons 

Harrell, E. (2021, November). Crime against persons with disabilities, 2009–2019 – statistical tables. Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://bjs.ojp.gov/library/publications/crime-against-persons-disabilities-2009-2019-statistical-tables 

Rubac, G. (2024, March 19). People with disabilities suffer extreme abuse by the prison-industrial complex. Workers World. https://www.workers.org/2024/03/77556/ 

DeCooman, D. (2023, November 21). Prison Violence | Types, Causes & Statistics. Study.com. https://study.com/academy/lesson/prison-violence-types-causes-statistics.html 

Simmons, C. J. (2024b, January 30). Food insecurity in prison makes people like me vulnerable to Labor Exploitation. Truthout. https://truthout.org/articles/food-insecurity-in-prison-makes-people-like-me-vulnerable-to-labor-exploitation/ 

Ortiz, E. (2023, May 23). How many people are held in solitary confinement in U.S. prisons and jails? now there’s a number. NBCNews.com. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/new-report-reveals-122k-are-held-solitary-confinement-us-prisons-jails-rcna84840 

Dholakia, N. (2023, October 18). Prisons and jails are violent; they don’t have to be. Vera Institute of Justice. https://www.vera.org/news/prisons-and-jails-are-violent-they-dont-have-to-be 

La Vigne, N. G., Debus- Sherrill, S., Brazzell, D., & Downey, P. M. (2011, December). Preventing violence and sexual assault in jail - urban institute. Preventing Violence and sexual Assault in Jail: A situational Crime Prevention Approach. https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/publication/26746/412458-Preventing-Violence-and-Sexual-Assault-in-Jail-A-situational-Crime-Prevention-Approach.PDF 

Kiriakou, J. (2024, July 17). How to stop the endemic problem of prisoner abuse in Federal Prisons. Institute for Policy Studies. https://ips-dc.org/stop-endemic-problem-prisoner-abuse-federal-prisons/ Dallao, M. (1996). NCJRS Virtual Library. Fighting Prison Rape: How to Make Your Facility Safer | Office of Justice Programs. https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/fighting-prison-rape-how-make-your-facility-safer

Defending the Vulnerable: Protecting At-Risk Populations from Abuse

BY: amanda hildreth

Abuse and violence are widely recognized as public health concerns. Abuse and violence occur in a broad range of relationships. Violence disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. We have to protect children, elders, and other vulnerable populations from abuse.

What is Vulnerability?

Vulnerability is the degree to which a person or population is susceptible to abuse or neglect and influenced by inherent and acquired risk factors. Intrinsic risk factors may include sex, race, and age among others. Acquired risk factors may include the environment, behaviors, and sociocultural behaviors or beliefs. Risk factors contribute to the vulnerability of a person or population (Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute, 2024). 

What are Vulnerable Populations?

Vulnerable populations are groups or communities at a higher risk for abuse or poor physical, psychological, or social health. Limitations due to illness or disability can influence the vulnerability of a population or person as well as social, economic, political, and environmental factors (Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute, 2024). 

Who is Considered Vulnerable?

Anyone can be vulnerable to abuse but some groups are more likely to experience it than others.

Vulnerable populations include  (U.S. Department of State, 2024, Ernstmeyer & Christman, 2022, Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute, 2024):

• Women and girls
• Children and youth
• LGBTQIA+ individuals
• Elderly
• Individuals with disabilities
• Individuals with chronic illnesses
• Individuals with communication barriers
• Veterans
• Racial or ethnic minorities
• Victims of sexual violence
• Victims of human trafficking
• Incarcerated individuals and their families
• Migrant workers
• Individuals with chronic mental health disorders
• Homeless individuals
• Refugees
• Immigrants
• Those with substance abuse issues
• Individuals experiencing Domestic Violence
• Populations with low literacy rates
• Individuals that are economically disadvantaged
• Rural residents with limited access to healthcare and other services

We must be vigilant and support all communities, including the most vulnerable.

Signs of Abuse Among Vulnerable Individuals

Vulnerable individuals may experience a variety of abuses including but not limited to Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Financial Abuse and neglect.

Signs of abuse that vulnerable individuals may exhibit include (Office of Safeguarding, 2023):

• Disclosure of abuse
• Difficulty walking or sitting
• Unexplained STD or incontinence
• Pregnancy in youth
• Anxiety around the abuser
• Self-destructive behavior
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Depression, anxiety
• Inappropriate behavior with others
• Trouble sleeping or bedwetting
• Eating disorders
• Changes in hygiene or self-care habits
• Changes in social patterns and behavior
• Injuries, lacerations and bruises
• Explanations inconsistent with injuries
• Unexplained weight loss or gain, dehydration or malnutrition
• Social isolation
• Medical, dental or other health issues that have not been cared for
• Stealing or hoarding food
• Loneliness
• Anxiety about being alone
• Excessive comforting behaviors
• Speech disorders
• Shame
• Confusion or agitation
• Helplessness
• Unexplained fear or paranoia
• Changes in self-esteem
• Attention-seeking behavior
• Excessive compliance
• Restricted or no access to funds or accounts
• Missing valuables, money or property
• No records or incomplete records of purchases and expenses
• Changes to a living will
• Unpaid bills
• Stealing money or borrowing from others

The presence or absence of these signs does not mean abuse is occurring and does not mean a vulnerable individual is safe. Some Victims of abuse may not display any noticeable signs. Vulnerable individuals will also often experience more than one type of abuse. The signs of abuse need to be evaluated in the context of the individual’s situation and circumstances. It is crucial to discuss any concerns for vulnerable individuals with someone who is trained to notice and address the signs of abuse (Office of Safeguarding, 2023).

How to Report Abuse or Neglect of Vulnerable Individuals

If you suspect a vulnerable individual is being abused, there are a variety of ways to report abuse or neglect. If the abuse is an emergency, report the abuse or neglect to local authorities. 

In non- emergencies, abuse can also be reported to state departments and many states provide Adult Protective Services to help and protect vulnerable adults including the elderly and adults with disabilities.

Many states have hotlines for reporting Child Abuse or neglect. Child Abuse can be reported to (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2024):

• The Childhelp National Child Abuse Line.
• The National Center for Missing or Exploited Children 
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2024).

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources

Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute. (2024). Defining vulnerable populations. https://tephi.texas.gov/docs/tephi-defining-vulnerability-and-vulnerable-populations.pdf?language_id=1 

U.S. Department of State. (2024). At-Risk Populations. U.S. Department of State. https://www.state.gov/other-policy-issues/at-risk-populations/ 

Ernstmeyer, K., & Christman, E. (2022). Chapter 17 vulnerable populations. Nursing: Mental Health and Community Concepts. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK590046/#:~:text=Examples%20of%20 vulnerable%20 populations%20are,Homeless%20people

Office of Safeguarding . (2023, November 28). Indicators of abuse & neglect of vulnerable persons . Office of Safeguarding - Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. https://officeofsafeguarding.org.au/indicators-of-abuse-neglect-of-vulnerable-persons/ 

How to report Child abuse and neglect. Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2024). https://www.childwelfare.gov/how-report-child-abuse-and-neglect/ National Domestic Violence Hotline. The Hotline. (2024, June 4). https://www.thehotline.org

The Dangers of Elderly Abuse in Care Homes

BY: Hannah Jagiri

Elderly Abuse in care homes is a pressing issue that poses significant dangers to some of society's most vulnerable individuals. As the global population ages, more people are entrusted to care homes, where they should receive the respect, compassion, and professional care they deserve. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

The rate of Elderly Abuse in nursing homes and care facilities is high.  Elderly Abuse in these settings can take various forms, including Physical, Emotional, Financial, and even Sexual Abuse, each of which carries severe consequences for the Victims (WHO, 2024). 

Types of Elderly Abuse in Care Homes

Physical Abuse in care homes can manifest as improper use of restraints, forceful handling, or outright violence. The bodily harm inflicted on elderly residents can lead to severe injuries, chronic pain, and even premature death (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015).

Emotional Abuse, such as verbal insults, threats, or neglect, can be equally damaging. The psychological impact of such abuse can result in depression, anxiety, and a rapid decline in mental health. Elderly individuals in care homes are often already coping with the challenges of aging, making them particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of emotional maltreatment (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015). 

Financial Abuse is another grave concern in care homes, where staff members or other residents may exploit the elderly's vulnerability to steal money, manipulate wills, or take control of their assets. This form of abuse can leave elderly individuals financially destitute, stripping them of the resources needed for their care and well-being. Additionally, the betrayal of trust inherent in Financial Abuse can cause deep emotional trauma (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015). 

Sexual Abuse, though less commonly reported, is a heinous violation that can have devastating effects on elderly residents. It often goes unnoticed due to the victim's reluctance or inability to speak out, stemming from fear, shame, or cognitive impairments like dementia. The physical and psychological impact of such abuse can be catastrophic, further diminishing the quality of life for the Victim (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015). 

Conclusion

The dangers of Elderly Abuse in care homes extend beyond the immediate harm to individual victims. It erodes the trust that families place in these facilities, leading to widespread fear and anxiety about the safety of their loved ones. Moreover, the systemic nature of this issue can perpetuate a culture of neglect and mistreatment within care institutions, affecting countless elderly individuals (Patel, Bunachita, Chiu, Suresh, & Patel, 2021).

It is important to enforce strict regulations, conduct regular inspections, and provide proper training to care home staff to combat this issue. Additionally, families and communities must remain vigilant, advocating for the rights and dignity of the elderly to ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve in their last years.

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting AbuseRefuge.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

World Health Organization. (2024). Abuse of older people. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015, December 8). Understanding elder abuse : Fact sheet, 2016. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/37396 

Patel, K., Bunachita, S., Chiu, H., Suresh, P., & Patel, U. K. (2021, April 8). Elder abuse: A comprehensive overview and physician-associated challenges. Cureus. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8110289/ 

The Ripple Effect of Financial Abuse on Young Lives

BY: Hannah Jagiri

Child Financial Abuse at its core involves the inappropriate use of a child's identity or assets for personal gain. Financial Abuse is a form of mistreatment often overshadowed by its physical and emotional counterparts, which wields a silent yet devastating impact on children (The National Foundation to End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2021).

It is a manipulation of economic resources to exert control, and when children are the victims, the consequences can reverberate throughout their lives. This can occur in the form of parents taking out loans under their child's name, or outright theft of a child's earnings or savings (The National Foundation to End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2021). The repercussions are not just immediate but can extend far into adulthood, leaving significant marks on a child's financial and emotional well-being.

The Long-Term Impacts of Financial Abuse on Children

Children subjected to Financial Abuse often find themselves thrust into adulthood with a burdened financial history. Poor credit scores, substantial debt, and a lack of financial literacy are common outcomes. These issues can hinder their ability to secure loans for education, find housing, or even gain employment, as credit checks become a standard procedure in many aspects of life (The National Foundation to End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2021).

The psychological effects are often profound. Children who witness or experience Financial Abuse may develop a distorted view of money and relationships. Trust issues, anxiety surrounding finances, and a diminished sense of self-worth are frequent psychological scars left by such abuse. These can lead to difficulties in forming healthy relationships and making sound financial decisions in the future (Sahadi, 2022).

The societal implications are equally troubling. Financial Abuse contributes to cycles of poverty and can perpetuate disparities. When children are unable to break free from the shackles of their tarnished financial past, they may struggle to contribute economically (Penniless Parenting, 2010).

How To Prevent Child Financial Abuse

Prevention and early intervention are key. Educating children about financial literacy, ensuring they have access to resources that protect their financial identity, and fostering environments where they can speak up about abuse are crucial steps in safeguarding our future generations from the clutches of financial exploitation (Axford & Berry, 2023).

Financial Abuse against children is a grave concern that demands attention. Its impacts are far-reaching, affecting not just the individual child but society at large. By shining a light on this issue and taking proactive measures, we hope to shield children from its harmful effects and pave the way to a more financially secure and emotionally healthy future.

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting GoARO.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References 

The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect. (2021, October 21). 3 forms of financial child abuse. EndCAN. https://endcan.org/2021/10/21/3-forms-of-financial-child-abuse/ 

Sahadi, J. (2022, May 19). How early traumas can affect your relationship with money | CNN business. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2022/05/16/success/money-trauma/index.html

Penniless Parenting. (2010, July 16). Breaking the poverty cycle. Penniless Parenting. https://www.pennilessparenting.com/2010/07/breaking-poverty-cycle.html Axford, N., & Berry, V. (2023, March 13). Money matters: Time for prevention and early intervention to address family economic circumstances. Journal of prevention (2022). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10009842/

Digital Abuse: How Our Devices Can Be Used Against Us

BY: Amanda Hildreth

Technology and its societal role have changed drastically over the last 20 years. Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other commonly used technology provide convenience, putting the world at our fingertips. But what happens when that technology is used to abuse others?

What Is Digital Abuse?

Digital Abuse is the use of technology to harass, demean, or intimidate someone. Digital Abuse can take many forms. Digital Abuse can happen at any stage in a relationship, to someone of any age, although it is more common among young adults and teens (Joyful Heart Foundation, 2018). It can also occur outside of intimate relationships, such as through friends, an acquaintance, or on a dating website (OneLove, 2023). Digital Abuse may also be accompanied by other forms of Domestic Violence. Ninety-six percent of teens who experienced digital abuse also experienced Sexual, Physical, or Psychological Abuse from their partners (Joyful Heart Foundation, 2018). 

Digital Abuse Can Take Many Forms

Digital Abuse is another form of stalking that creates fear, helplessness, and a safety concern (Lynn, 2020).

Digital Abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to (Family Sunshine Center, 2023):

Physical Abuse in Adolescence and Its Effects on Development

BY: Hannah Jagiri

Physical Abuse during adolescence is a serious concern that can have far-reaching effects on an individual's development. This form of abuse is not only an immediate harm; it has a long-lasting effect and can cause stunted growth psychologically, emotionally, and physically (Peterson, 2018).

Adolescence is a critical period of transition from childhood to adulthood, where children undergo significant developmental changes. It is a time when they form their identity, develop self-esteem, and learn to navigate complex social relationships.

Physical Abuse, characterized by intentional harm and often inflicted by a caregiver or another individual, can disrupt this delicate process. The trauma of experiencing violence can also lead to different developmental issues, including cognitive delays, emotional dysregulation, and social withdrawal (Nationwide Childrens, 2024). 

Impacts Of Physical Abuse

The impact of Physical Abuse on cognitive development can be profound. Adolescents who have been abused may struggle with learning difficulties and exhibit lower academic performance. The stress and anxiety caused by abuse can impair their concentration and memory, hindering their ability to process information effectively (Strathern et al., 2020).

Emotionally, the effects of Physical Abuse can manifest as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Adolescents may internalize the abuse, leading to feelings of worthlessness and helplessness. These negative emotions can become pervasive, affecting their mood and outlook (Radell et. al, 2021).

Socially, Physical Abuse can result in adolescents having difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships. They may become isolated, distrustful of others, or develop aggressive behaviors. This can further alienate them from their peers, creating a cycle of social exclusion and loneliness  (Nationwide Childrens, 2024). 

Health Consequences Of Physical Abuse

Moreover, Physical Abuse can have long-lasting health consequences. Adolescents may experience chronic pain, somatic symptoms, and increased vulnerability to diseases. The stress associated with abuse can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, which can have additional detrimental effects on their health and development (Springer et al., 2003).

In conclusion, Physical Abuse in adolescence is a destructive force that can derail an individual's developmental path. It is imperative to recognize the signs of abuse and intervene early to provide support and resources to affected individuals. Doing so can help mitigate the adverse effects and foster a healthier, more resilient generation. 

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting GoARO.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References 

Peterson, S. (2018, March 19). Effects of Physical Abuse. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. https://www.nctsn.org/what-is-child-trauma/trauma-types/physical-abuse/effects 

Nationwide Children’s Hospital. (2024). Physical abuse. Nationwide Children’s Hospital. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/physical-abuse-trauma 

Strathern, L., Gianotti, M., Mills, R., Kisley, S., Najman, J., & Abajoir, A. (2020, October 1). Long-term Cognitive, Psychological, and Health Outcomes Associated With Child Abuse and Neglect. Publications.aap.org. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/146/4/e20200438/79676/Long-term-Cognitive-Psychological-and-Health.

Radell, M. L., Abo Hamza, E. G., Daghustani, W. H., Perveen, A., & Moustafa, A. A. (2021, April 13). The impact of different types of abuse on depression. Depression research and treatment. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8060108/

Springer, K. W., Sheridan, J., Kuo, D., & Carnes, M. (2003, October). The long-term health outcomes of childhood abuse. an overview and a call to action. Journal of general internal medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1494926/ 

Domestic Violence Around The World

BY: Amanda Hildreth

Domestic Violence can affect anyone, but how it manifests itself may be different depending on the setting in which it occurs. Societal acceptance within a culture can play a large role in the survivor’s decision to leave an abusive situation. Societal acceptance of Domestic Violence is widespread among many developing countries, with 36% of people believing it is justified in certain situations (University of Bristol, 2018).

How Cultural Views Affect Victims

Cultural norms shape people’s perceptions and expectations of relationships and marriages. For example, in cultures such as Asian, African, and Middle Eastern societies, marriage is seen as a communal affair with an emphasis on family satisfaction. As a consequence, those in these societies may face intense pressure to maintain the relationship, regardless of any Domestic Violence they may be experiencing (Perina, 2023). 

For example, a study performed in South Africa revealed women in the region have the cultural belief of “lebtila la mosadi ke bogadi” which translates to “ a woman’s grave is at her husband’s house,” which affects their decision to leave a relationship where they are experiencing Domestic Violence (Perina, 2023). 

Countries Without Domestic Violence Protection

Unfortunately, even in this modern age, many countries lack the laws to protect against Domestic Violence. These countries often experience more than 300 cases daily (Sawe, 2018). 

Countries without any Domestic Violence protection include (Sawe, 2018):

• Congo
• South Sudan
• Iraq
• Iran
• Ivory Coast
• Myanmar
• Chad
• Swaziland
• Burkina Faso
• Cameroon
• Morocco
• Guinea
• Estonia
• Russia
• Qatar
• Gabon
• Eritrea
• Djibouti
• Niger
• Haiti
• Egypt
• Oman
• Syria
• Sudan
• United arab emirates
• Bahrain
• Afghanistan
• Mauritania
• Yemen
• Palestine
• Uzbekistan
• Armenia
• Mali
• Liberia
• Lesotho
• Libya
• Tunisia
• Togo
• Micronesia
• Algeria
• Tanzania
• Kenya
• Kuwait

Several factors, including religious beliefs, taboos, and cultural beliefs, are some of the leading causes of a lack of laws around Domestic Violence in these countries. In countries in the Middle East, for example, it is taboo for women to report any form of violence they may experience. Further, the lack of reported cases makes it difficult to create laws against Domestic Violence because of improper support from communities. These laws may also vary from community to community, with no common law on Domestic Violence. Many authorities in these areas even oppose laws on handling Domestic Violence (Sawe, 2018).

Most of the offices responsible for these laws are dominated by men, leading most proposed laws on Domestic Violence to be rejected. Laws against Domestic Violence may be seen as an infringement on the rights of the person who committed the crime. In some countries, Domestic Violence is not seen as a crime to create a law to prevent it (Sawe, 2018).

Countries Moving Toward Change

Although many countries have no laws against Domestic Violence, some countries are moving toward change and continuing to pass new laws against Domestic Violence.

In 2016, China passed its first law making Domestic Violence a national crime and describing Domestic Violence as any Physical or Psychological Abuse against a relative or cohabiting non-relative. Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia have been moving toward rescinding their rape-marriage laws. Kyrgyzstan passed a law called Safeguarding and Protection Against 

Domestic Violence (SPAV), which makes it easier for victims to report Domestic Violence cases with better follow-up from police. Liberia passed a Domestic Violence Act in 2019 that strengthened the protections for Domestic Violence victims, including men, women, and children, and also made it mandatory for healthcare providers, social workers, and school officials to report suspected incidents of Domestic Violence (Kraut, 2021). 

How We Can Prevent Domestic Violence In Other Countries

In certain cultures, such as Eastern cultures, a lack of support, both from a legal and institutional standpoint as well as social alienation, may leave Domestic Violence victims feeling trapped in an abusive relationship. Victims may face additional barriers to resources, such as language barriers or limited knowledge of their available resources (Perina, 2023). 

Through access to available and effective social support, those experiencing Domestic Violence can gather the strength to leave a violent relationship. In these cultures, continued emphasis on personal autonomy and independence provides more resources for seeking support (Perina, 2023). We must also provide services for victims that identify and understand how cultural values and norms impact each victim. 

People from different cultures may also have different coping strategies. For example, Japanese-born women show increased psychological distress toward active coping strategies compared to American-born Japanese women. In these situations, speaking out against abuse may create more anxiety than the abuse itself (Perina, 2023). 

Understanding the role that culture plays in how we view Domestic Violence can help us have compassion for survivors and provide us with best practices to help survivors heal.

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting GoARO.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References

University Of Bristol. (2018, October 31). Domestic violence is widely accepted in most developing countries, new study reveals. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181031141437.htm#:~:text=Overall%2C%20the%20societal%20acceptance%20of,Asia%20(29%20per%20cent). 

Perina, K. (2023, July 19). How culture impacts the decision to leave abusive marriages. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/non-weird-science/202307/how-culture-impacts-the-decision-to-leave-abusive-marriages 

Sawe, B. E. (2018, August 15). Countries without laws against domestic violence. WorldAtlas. https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/nations-without-domestic-violence-regulation.html 

Kraut, M. (2021, October 31). A look at domestic violence internationally. Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Blog. https://www.losangelescriminaldefenseattorneyblog.com/a-look-at-domestic-violence-internationally/ 

The Consequences Of Rape On Survivors

by- Hannah Jagiri

Rape is a heinous crime that leaves scars on its survivors, both physically and psychologically. The aftermath of sexual assault can be seen through every aspect of a survivor's life, altering their sense of self, relationships, and overall well-being. Let’s delve into the profound consequences of rape and shed light on the pain endured by Survivors.

Physical Effects of Rape

There are a variety of physical effects caused by rape (Gluck, 2022).

 1. Visible Trauma

Bruising and Bleeding:  Forced sexual assault often results in visible bruising or bleeding in and around the vaginal or anal area, as well as on other parts of the body, due to coercive violence.

Painful Intercourse:  Survivors may experience pain during sexual intercourse with their partner.

Urinary Infections:  Infections can occur due to trauma or exposure during the assault.

2. Reproductive Health Implications

Pregnancy:  Rape can lead to unwanted pregnancies, adding an additional layer of trauma (Rape Crisis, 2024). 

Sexually Transmitted Diseases:  Survivors are at risk of contracting STDs such as HIV, genital warts, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

Psychological Effects of Rape

The effects of rape aren’t just physical; rape leaves a variety of psychological wounds on its Survivors (Gluck,2022).

1. Self-Blame and Coping Mechanisms

Self-Blame:  Survivors often blame themselves as an avoidance-based coping tool. Self-blame can hinder the healing process.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):  PTSD causes feelings of severe anxiety, stress, and reliving the trauma that haunts Survivors.

Depression: The weight of the experience can lead to deep depression.

Flashbacks: Memories of the assault often resurface as if the horror is happening again.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): BPD leads to emotional instability and difficulty regulating emotions.

Sleep Disorders: Survivors may experience nightmares and disrupted sleep patterns.

Eating Disorders:  Trauma from rape may manifest in disordered eating habits.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID):  DID leads to experiencing a fragmented sense of self.

2. Social and Emotional Impact

Rape has a variety of social-emotional impacts on the Survivor (Joyful Heart Foundation, 2024), (Rape Crisis, 2024). 

Distrust of Others:  Survivors become uneasy in everyday social situations, questioning the intentions of those around them.

Anger:  Survivors may experience rage at the violation they endured.

Feelings of Powerlessness:  Many Survivors feel that the rapist robbed them of control over their bodies, leaving them feeling helpless.

The Long-Term Journey

The aftermath of rape is a complex web of acute and chronic effects. Survivors require comprehensive care that addresses both the immediate and long-term consequences. Sadly, intimate relationships often disintegrate within a year after the assault, exacerbating the psychological impact. Some Survivors, especially those who experienced extreme violence or were assaulted at a young age, may need lifelong treatment (Gluck,2022).

As a society, we must recognize the gravity of these consequences and provide unwavering support to Survivors. Healing begins with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to dismantling the culture that perpetuates sexual violence.

Survivors are not defined solely by their trauma. They are resilient individuals deserving of compassion and healing. Let us stand together to create a world where no one suffers in silence and justice prevails for all survivors of sexual assault.

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting GoARO.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream Volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

References 

Gluck, S. (2022, January 2). Effects of rape: Psychological and physical effects of rape. HealthyPlace. ;

Rape Crisis. (2024). Impacts of sexual violence and abuse. Rape Crisis England & Wales. Heart Foundation. (2024). Effects of Sexual Assault and Rape. Joyfulheartfoundation.org. https://www.joyfulheartfoundation.org/learn/sexual-assault-rape/effects-sexual-assault-and-rape

Child Abuse And Addiction: A Vicious Cycle

by- Amanda Hildreth

All types of Child Abuse, including Sexual, Physical, Emotional, and child neglect, can have long-term consequences throughout someone’s life (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).  

Child Abuse affects one in four children in the United States. Child Abuse can cause a variety of effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder and an increased risk of developing a substance use problem later in life (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).

Although not every child who experiences abuse will struggle with using substances, there is a significant link between Child Abuse and substance use (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).

Why Child Abuse May Lead to Substance Use

Studies have shown that Child Abuse is one of the most common predictors of substance use leading into adulthood. Child Abuse may lead to long-term emotional and psychological damage, which further increases the risk of substance use as they try to deal with stress and trauma (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).

Child Abuse also affects brain development in areas that regulate emotions and manage impulses. Emotional regulation in childhood is developed through interactions with parents and other important adults in the child’s life. In a home environment where Child Abuse is occurring, children are not exposed to appropriate behaviors to manage and express emotions (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).

A lack of emotional regulation results in a child’s inability to manage negative emotions in adulthood, and they may find unhealthy ways to manage negative emotions, such as using substances (The National Foundation To End Child Abuse and Neglect, 2023).

Research has also shown a link between exposure to trauma and substance use. About 96.5% of adults living with a substance use disorder have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime (Mandavia, Robinson, Bradley, Ressler, and Powers, 2016).

The Effect of Parental Addiction On Children

Many children who experience child neglect and abuse also have parents who are living with an active addiction. Around 25% of children in the United States are exposed to Alcohol Abuse alone within their families (Shoreline Recovery Center, 2022). 

Children of substance abusers are at risk for various emotional, social, and behavioral issues as well as cognitive challenges (Shoreline Recovery Center, 2022). 

Parents who are addicted often can’t provide structure or a loving environment, which leads to adverse health effects as well as problems with their physical and emotional development and also increases their risk of experiencing Sexual or Physical Abuse (Shoreline Recovery Center, 2022). 

When a parent or caregiver is living with addiction, they are also often living with at least one mental health disorder, which places children at high risk for child neglect (Shoreline Recovery Center, 2022). 

Signs To Be Aware Of

When a child is experiencing problems at home due to a parent misusing drugs or alcohol or due to Child Abuse, there are often noticeable signs.

Signs to be aware of in the child may include (Shoreline Recovery Center, 2022) and (Stanford Medicine, 2024):

• Being angry or aggressive
• Having behavioral problems
• Having low self-esteem
• Showing signs of depression
• Self-harming
• Failing to meet school requests that involve parents
• Becoming scared if the school contacts their parents
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Social withdrawal
• Poor concentration
• Abnormal weight gain or loss
• Poor hygiene
• Burns
• Bites
• Lacerations
• Bruising

The child’s parents may also seem evasive or have inconsistent stories about why the child is having an issue or injury.

What To Do If You Suspect A Child Is Being Abused

If a child is in immediate danger or has been severely injured due to abuse, call 911. Otherwise, if you suspect Child Abuse, there are some crucial steps you should take before making a report.

Before making a report (RAINN, 2024):

• Tell the child you will talk to someone who will help them, and ensure them that you are doing so for their safety.
• Ensure that the child is in a safe place. If you fear that the abuser will cause further harm to the child after you make the report, communicate this to the authorities.
• Be ready to provide identifying information such as the nature of the abuse, your relationship with the child, etc.

We offer Norm Therapy® sessions through our website, where you can talk to a Norm Therapist® about what you are experiencing. Visit our website to learn more at GoARO.org. Each state has a local agency where you can report Child Abuse, which can be found on the Child Welfare website. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline provides professional crisis counselors who are reachable 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also call your local police precinct (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2024). For international needs and services, please contact: 

• The International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect: http://www.ispcan.org/
• World Health Organization: World Health Organization (WHO)
• Kidpower International: Child Abuse Prevention | Kidpower International
• Child Rights International Network: CRIN - Child Rights International Network
• Child Helpline International: Child Helpline International – Every Child Has a Voice. No child should be left unheard.
• CDC- Additional Resources|Child Abuse and Neglect|Violence Prevention|Injury Center|CDC
• 4C for Children- Child Abuse Prevention & Positive Parenting | 4C for Children

At ARO, we are here to support your personal healing journey towards your complete well-being. We bring solutions and real-time education for 21 different types of abuses. The most prevalent abuses are Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse. Support our efforts by visiting GoARO.org and NormTherapy.com to sign up for Norm Therapist® Training to become one of our dynamic staff members who serve Victims and Survivors of abuse worldwide, schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, become a Live Stream volunteer, join our mailing list to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a generous donation.

Sources:

The National Foundation to End Child Abuse and Neglect. (2023, January 31). The link between child abuse and substance abuse. ;

Mandavia, A., Robinson, G. G. N., Bradley, B., Ressler, K. J., & Powers, A. (2016, October). Exposure to childhood abuse and later substance use: Indirect effects of emotion dysregulation and exposure to trauma. Journal of traumatic stress. ;

Impact of parental substance misuse on child development. SHORELINE Recovery Center | Alcohol and Drug Rehab San Diego. (2022, April 4). ;

Stanford Medicine. (2024). Signs & Symptoms of Abuse/Neglect. Child Abuse. ;

RAINN. (2024). If you suspect a child is being harmed. ;

Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2024). How to report Child abuse and neglect. ;

Abuse In Pregnancy: Acknowledging An Undeniable Truth

by- Amanda Hildreth

Domestic Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of their background, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, or sexuality. Around one in five women experience Domestic Abuse in their lifetime from a partner or ex-partner (NHS Inform, 2023). One in three women are affected by Domestic Abuse when pregnant (Tommy’s Pregnancy Hub, 2023).

Domestic Abuse may be triggered by pregnancy, or existing abuse may get worse during pregnancy or after birth (NHS, 2021).

What Can Trigger Abuse In Pregnancy?

For many, pregnancy can cause stress. However, it isn’t normal for your partner to react violently to stress. 

Some partners may become abusive during pregnancy because they feel (March of Dimes, 2023):

• Upset by an unplanned pregnancy
• Stressed at the thought of financially supporting a child
• Jealous that the  attention may shift from them to the new baby

What Behaviors May An Abuser Exhibit During And After Pregnancy?

There are a variety of ways in which an abuser may act during or after pregnancy to have power and control over their partner.

During pregnancy, an abuser may (Envision Counseling and Support Centre, 2023):

• Start, continue, or change the patterns of abuse
• Control, limit, or deny access to prenatal care
• Use the pregnancy as an excuse for Emotional Abuse
• Deny that the child is theirs
• Provide no emotional support during pregnancy
• Refuse their partner access to money for food or access to food
• Threaten to leave and report the partner as an unfit parent
• Force their partner to have an abortion
• Injure their partner to cause them to lose the baby
• Force their partner to continue with an unwanted pregnancy

After the baby is born, the cycle of abuse and control doesn’t stop. After the baby is born, an abuser may (Envision Counseling and Support Centre, 2023):

• Increase the amount of abuse
• Deny the partner access to the newborn child
• Not support the partner or help them when they come home with the baby
• Blame the partner because the infant is the wrong gender
• Try to make the partner feel bad for time spent with the baby
• Criticize the partner’s parenting abilities
• Threaten to kidnap the baby
• Make child custody threats
• Make the partner stay at home with the baby
• Prevent the partner from getting a job
• Making or threatening to make false child abuse allegations to Social Services against the partner
• Withhold money or supplies for the baby, such as diapers or formula
• Blame the partner for the baby’s crying
• Not allowing the partner to perform personal hygiene tasks such as bathing
• Threaten to take the baby or other children and leave

Who Is At Risk For Abuse During Pregnancy?

Anyone can experience abuse during pregnancy. However, there are a variety of risk factors that put you at a higher risk for experiencing Domestic Abuse during pregnancy. 

A history of Domestic Violence, a lack of social support, a lower education level, and unplanned pregnancy are considered to be significant risk factors for Domestic Violence during pregnancy (Shidhani, Kendi & Kiyumi, 2020).

Alcohol consumption by the abusive partner was also a significant risk factor for all women regardless of pregnancy status (Shidhani, Kendi & Kiyumi, 2020).

Effects Of Abuse On Maternal And Neonatal Outcomes

The effects of Domestic Violence on maternal and neonatal outcomes are multifaceted and preventable.

Experiencing Domestic Violence during pregnancy is associated with a variety of pregnancy-related behaviors. Research shows that women abused during pregnancy are twice as likely to miss appointments for prenatal care or seek care later than is recommended. Poor nutrition and less than adequate weight gain, as well as higher rates of smoking, alcohol use, and substance use, also occur in women experiencing pregnancy abuse (Alhusen, Ray, Sharps & Bullock, 2015).

Negative mental health effects such as depression can occur during pregnancy. Women who experience abuse are 2.5 times more likely to have depression than those not abused while pregnant. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is also a common side effect of Domestic Abuse in 19 to 84% of women (Alhusen, Ray, Sharps & Bullock, 2015). 

Research supports a link between insufficient prenatal care and negative birth outcomes such as low birth weight or preterm delivery. Women who experienced physical assault during pregnancy also had an increased risk of abruption or hemorrhage during labor (Alhusen, Ray, Sharps & Bullock, 2015).

For women experiencing physical violence, episodes of assault contributed to an 8-fold increase in the risk of fetal death and a 6-fold increase in the risk of neonatal death (Alhusen, Ray, Sharps & Bullock, 2015). 

Domestic Violence also has a fourfold increased risk of having a smaller gestational-age infant. These infants are smaller than normal for their gestational age and are at an increased risk of early childhood developmental and behavioral problems, as well as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other adverse health effects that can last into adulthood (Alhusen, Ray, Sharps & Bullock, 2015).

What To Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence

Though it may be challenging, getting help if you are experiencing Domestic Violence is crucial. It is not your fault, and you can make a new life for yourself and your baby. 

You may feel that if you stay, you may be hurt again, but if you leave, your partner may pursue you.

Here are some steps you can take to get help (Frost, 2021):

• Call 911 if you believe your partner is going to hurt you.
• Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. They can provide confidential crisis intervention and referrals to local resources as well as emergency strategies. 
• Consult with your healthcare provider or Norm Therapist®. 
• Visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline for important safety planning tips and numbers to call in each state for services.
• Prepare a getaway bag with emergency resources, including clothes, money, ID, food, and water.

We at ARO are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. You can schedule Norm Therapy® sessions today by going to our website at GoARO.org to get the help and care you need. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

Sources:

NHS Inform. (2023). Violence and abuse in pregnancy | ready steady baby! - NHS inform. ;

Tommy’s Pregnancy Hub. (2023). Domestic abuse during and after pregnancy. Tommy’s. Together, for every baby. ;

NHS. (2023). Domestic abuse in pregnancy. NHS choices. ;

March of Dimes. (2023). Abuse during pregnancy. March of Dimes. ;

Abuse during pregnancy.

Envision Counseling and Support Centre. (2023, March 15). ;

Shidhani, N. A. A., Kendi, A. A. A., & Kiyumi, M. H. A. (2020, October 28). Prevalence, risk factors and effects of domestic violence before and d: IJWH. International Journal of Women’s Health. https://www.dovepress.com/prevalence-risk-factors-and-effects-of-domestic-violence-before-and-du-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IJWH 

Alhusen, J. L., Ray, E., Sharps, P., & Bullock, L. (2015, January). Intimate partner violence during pregnancy: Maternal and neonatal outcomes. Journal of women’s health (2002). ;

Frost, A. (2021, November). Domestic violence in pregnancy. BabyCenter. ;

The Effect of Narcissistic Abuse on Adult Victims

by- Hannah Jagiri

Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by excessive self-importance and a constant need for admiration. Narcissists often lack empathy, and their actions can have profound effects on adults in various aspects of their lives (Mitra, P., & Fluyau, D., 2023). 

Narcissism can have lasting effects on adult Victims, impacting various aspects of their lives. This pervasive pattern of behavior can influence relationships, professional success, mental health, and overall well-being. People who fall prey to narcissistic behavior often find themselves entangled in a web of manipulation, Emotional Abuse, and a distorted sense of self-worth (Corelli, 2023). 

One of the most evident impacts of Narcissistic Abuse  on Victims is creating a lack of self-esteem. Narcissists thrive on diminishing others to elevate themselves, leaving their Victims questioning their value and competence. Continuous exposure to such behavior can lead to a pervasive sense of inadequacy, making it challenging for Victims to trust their judgment and capabilities (Bay Area CBT Center, 2023).

Relationships bear the brunt of narcissistic influence, with Victims often experiencing difficulties forming and maintaining healthy connections. The manipulative tactics employed by narcissists often leave Victims questioning the authenticity of others, making it challenging to establish genuine bonds (Corelli, 2023). 

Emotional well-being is also significantly impacted by Narcissistic Abuse. Victims may grapple with anxiety, depression, and heightened stress levels as a result of the constant emotional turmoil inflicted upon them. The gaslighting and manipulation techniques used by narcissists can leave Victims questioning their reality, leading to a state of confusion and emotional distress (Wakefield, 2023). 

Leaving a narcissistic relationship often involves a process of healing and rebuilding. Victims may undergo therapy to address the emotional scars left by the narcissist and work toward restoring their sense of self-worth and reclaiming control over their lives (Shafir, 2022).

In conclusion, the impact of narcissism on Victims is multifaceted, affecting their self-esteem, relationships, emotional well-being, and professional lives. Breaking free from the clutches of Narcissistic Abuse requires a combination of self-awareness, support from others, and a commitment to healing.

Recognizing the signs of narcissistic behavior and seeking help are essential steps in reclaiming one's life and moving toward a future free from the detrimental effects of Narcissistic Abuse (Shafir, 2022). Don't let fear of being alone deter you; we're here to support you through this journey.

At ARO, we bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can impact the Abuse Care Community, purchase Norm Therapy® sessions, and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Mitra, P., & Fluyau, D. (2023, March 13). Narcissistic personality disorder - statpearls - NCBI bookshelf. Narcissistic Personality Disorder. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556001/ 

Corelli, C. (2023, November 20). 10 symptoms of daughters of narcissistic fathers. Carla Corelli. ;

CBT to overcome narcissistic abuse: Understanding echoism and pseudo-identity. Bay Area CBT Center. (2023, August 24). https://bayareacbtcenter.com/cbt-to-overcome-narcissistic-abuse-understanding-echoism-and-pseudo-identity/#:~:text=Victims%20experience%20internal%20co

Corelli, C. (2023, November 20). The complicated dynamics of narcissistic families: What you need to know. Carla Corelli. ;

Wakefield, M. (2023, July 17). Narcissistic abuse and anxiety. Narcissistic Abuse Rehab. https://www.narcissisticabuserehab.com/narcissistic-abuse-and-anxiety/#:~:text=Long%20Term%20Effects,sense%20of%20helplessness%20and%20vulnerability. 

Shafir, H. (2022, February 11). Stages of healing after narcissistic abuse - choosing therapy. ;

Abuse And Technology: The Dark Side Of Technology Advancement

by- Amanda Hildreth

In many ways, technology has improved our lives. It is integral to many aspects of our daily lives. However, there is also a dark side to technology, as technology is increasingly being used to control Victims of abuse. 

Technological Abuse uses everyday tools like online platforms, mobile devices, and smart devices for the purpose of abuse.

What Does Technology Abuse Look Like?

Technology Abuse can appear in numerous ways to include the following (FinAbility, 2023):

• Communication online through social media, phone, text, or email without consent. This can include trying to reach you through a friend, family member, child, etc.
• Impersonating someone online to contact you
• Impersonating you online
• Making someone send proof of their location
• Checking someone’s text messages, social media interactions, or other internet usage
• Sending abusive emails, texts, or other messages
• Making excessive texts and calls to reach you
• Watching your online activities through spyware 
• Making threatening phone calls 
• Forcing someone under threat of violence to give them a password to gain access to their accounts or devices
• Keeping someone’s phone or limiting who they can contact
• Sharing intimate photos of someone without consent
• Using a GPS tracker on your car to track you
• Using smart devices in the home or smart watches to monitor you

How Prevalent Is Technology Abuse?

Technology Abuse is very prevalent worldwide. The following are statistics about the prevalence of this abuse (NARIKA, 2018):

• 97% of Domestic Violence programs report abusers using technology to control, monitor, and harass Victims
• 80% of Domestic Violence programs report abusers monitoring a Victim’s social media accounts
• 86% of Domestic Violence programs report that Survivors are harassed using social media
• 1 in 4 Victims of stalking receives unwanted calls, emails, texts, and cyberstalking

In 2019, 71% of Domestic Abuse perpetrators monitored a Victim’s devices and activity, and 54% downloaded stalkerware on the Victim’s device (Parsons et al., 2019). In January 2020, 60 to 63% of Victims had reported Technology Abuse (Messing, Bagwell-Gray, Brown, Kappas & Durfee, 2020). 

Abusers have used technology to harass and monitor Victims for years, but the pandemic has created more opportunities for abuse than before. It is easier to get access to someone’s phone to change privacy settings, get passwords, and put tracking software on their phone due to spending more time with their partners in close quarters (Godin, 2020).

The Impacts Of Technology Abuse

Being harassed and monitored can leave you feeling powerless and make you afraid for your safety. Someone who uses technology to abuse is also likely going to make it harder for you to leave the relationship by limiting your contact with family, friends, or support services. After you leave the relationship, the abuser may still use technology to abuse you and track your location (Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre, 2023). 

New Forms Of Abuse Using Technology

With new developing technology also emerge new forms of abuse. 

Some mobile device apps allow hidden surveillance. One study found a 93% increase in the use of spyware apps since the start of the pandemic (Avast, 2021). 

There are also tracking apps designed for child or anti-theft protection that are easily accessible in the app store or on legitimate websites. Research shows these apps have been used to stalk or spy on Victims (Freed, D., Palmer, J., Minchala, D., Levy, K., Ristenpart, T., & Dell, N. 2018)

Abusers have also been known to use covert monitoring devices like Apple AirTags to track someone’s car (Matei, 2022). Smart locks, thermostats, TVs, sound systems, and security monitoring are also being used to control Victims and monitor their movements. 

Fake accounts on social media are also being used with the intent of abuse. These accounts often present the Victim in a negative light or in a derogatory way (Sugiura, L., Nurse, J. R. C., 2023). 

How Can I Protect Myself If I’m Using Connected Devices?

To use connected devices safely, make sure you know how your devices connect to each other, what information is available, and what security features the technology has. 

If you suspect one of your devices is being misused, you can document the abuse. Documenting the abuse can show you patterns and help you build a case if you are pursuing legal action. 

Safety planning with someone who has an understanding of Technology Abuse is also a good idea (WomensLaw.org., 2023). A Norm Therapist® can be a trusted resource to help you with safety planning and abuse recovery. To learn more or to schedule Norm Therapy® sessions, go to: https://abuserefuge.org/norm-therapy-victim-or-survivor-form.

We at ARO are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying,  Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

Sources

FinAbility. (2023). About technology abuse. About Technology Abuse. ;

Tech abuse awareness. NARIKA. (2018). ;

Parsons, C., Molnar, A., Dalek, J., Knockel, J., Kenyon, M., Haselton, B., Khoo, C., & Deibert, R. (2019, June 12). The predator in your pocket: A multidisciplinary assessment of the stalkerware application industry. The Citizen Lab. ;

Messing, J., Bagwell-Gray, M., Brown, M. L., Kappas, A., & Durfee, A. (2020, January 6). Intersections of stalking and technology-based abuse: Emerging definitions, conceptualization, and measurement - journal of family violence. SpringerLink. ;

Godin, M. (2020, December 31). How technology is enabling domestic abusers in the pandemic. Time. https://time.com/5922566/technology-domestic-abuse-coronavirus-pandemic/ 

Technology abuse. Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre. (2023, July 26). ;

Avast. (2021, April 22). Use of Stalkerware and Spyware Apps Increase by 93% since Lockdown Began in the UK. ;

Freed, D., Palmer, J., Minchala, D., Levy, K., Ristenpart, T., & Dell, N. (2018, April 21). “A stalker’s paradise”: How intimate partner abusers exploit technology. https://dl.acm.org/doi/pdf/10.1145/3173574.3174241 

Matei, A. (2022, January 20). “I was just really scared”: Apple AirTags lead to stalking complaints. The Guardian. ;

Sugiura, L., Nurse, J. R. C. (2023, January 12). How tech is driving new forms of domestic abuse. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/how-tech-is-driving-new-forms-of-domestic-abuse-176187

Abuse using technology. WomensLaw.org. (2023, August 23). ;

navigating workspace anxiety

by- Hannah Jagiri

In today's fast-paced and competitive work environments, it's unsurprising that many individuals experience workspace anxiety. Whether you're working in a bustling office or from the comfort of your home, the pressures of the modern workplace can take a toll on your mental well-being. 

Understanding and addressing workspace anxiety is crucial for maintaining productivity and overall happiness. Workspace anxiety can manifest in various ways, from the fear of meeting tight deadlines to concerns about job security and the pressure to perform at a high level constantly.

Symptoms of Workspace Anxiety

Workspace anxiety can manifest in various ways, with symptoms ranging from subtle to overt. Individuals experiencing workspace anxiety may find themselves constantly on edge, feeling a sense of restlessness or unease. Procrastination and difficulty concentrating on tasks are common signs, as well as persistent feelings of being overwhelmed and the fear of not meeting deadlines. 

Physical symptoms, such as tension headaches, muscle tightness, and changes in sleep patterns, can also occur. Additionally, individuals with workspace anxiety might experience irritability, mood swings, and a decrease in overall job satisfaction.

A healthier and more productive work environment begins with recognizing the symptoms of workspace anxiety.

Here are some strategies to help you manage and alleviate workspace anxiety: 

• Establish a Routine: Create a daily schedule that includes work hours, breaks, and time for self-care. Consistency can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety. 

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down daily tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals. Celebrate small victories along the way to boost your confidence. 

• Open Communication: Talk to your manager or colleagues about your concerns. They may offer support or suggest ways to reduce your workload. 

• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques like deep breathing to reduce stress. These can be particularly useful during high-pressure moments. 

• Create Boundaries: When working remotely, establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Designate a workspace and set specific hours for work to prevent burnout. 

• Stay Informed: Keep up with work trends and developments to boost your confidence and reduce uncertainty about your job. 

• Seek Professional Help: If workspace anxiety becomes overwhelming and persistent, consider speaking with a Norm Therapist® or mental health professional. They can provide guidance, support and coping strategies tailored to your situation. 

• Socialize and Connect: Make an effort to connect with colleagues, even if it's virtually. Social support can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. 

• Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. A healthy lifestyle can strengthen your resilience to workplace stressors. 

• Take Breaks: Regularly step away from your workspace to recharge. Short breaks can improve focus and prevent burnout. It is important to know that workspace anxiety is a common challenge, and you're not alone in facing it. 

By implementing the strategies provided and seeking support when needed, you can create a more relaxed and fulfilling work environment that promotes both your professional growth and your mental well-being. We are rooting for you.

We at ARO are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Explotation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References:

Priory Group. (2023). What to do if you feel too anxious to work. Workplace Anxiety: What To Do if You Feel Too Anxious to Work. ;

Vige, W. (2023, January 28). It’s time to get your work anxiety under control [2023]. Asana. ;

Laguaite, M. (2021, April 5). Workplace anxiety: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/features/workplace-anxiety 

Abuse and Mental Health: The Common Connection

by- Amanda Hildreth

Abuse is common in relationships but isn't only limited to romantic relationships. It can also come in the form of relationships with family, friendships, or interactions with strangers. 

The common assumption is that abuse is caused by a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, etc. These are serious mental health conditions; however, they do not cause abuse. However, a few diagnoses can increase the risk of abusive patterns in relationships and other areas of life (The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2023).

Which Diagnoses Lead to Violent Behavior and Abuse?

Occasionally, mental health symptoms can lead a person to violence. These diagnoses include ( DeAngelis, T., 2021):

• Persecutory Delusions: For people with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, studies show that some of the symptoms can lead to violence. These include persecutory delusions, such as when a patient thinks people are constantly out to get them or another grand delusion. Another symptom is “command hallucinations” when someone hears voices that order them to be violent with someone.

• Grandiosity, Grandiose Delusions, And Mania: Grandiosity can play a role in violence and aggression. People can be overtaken by an exaggerated sense of power, preventing them from empathizing with others and creating a sense of entitlement, including the right to take advantage of others. The high energy that comes with mania can also lead to violence. 

• Antisocial Personality Traits: A diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder characterized by deceitfulness, manipulation of others for personal gain, and disregard for others can lead to violence. 

Abusive Behavior and Mental Illness Are Separate 

Due to abusive behaviors primarily occurring in intimate relationships, it is common that an abusive person won't show their negative behaviors with coworkers, family members, or friends. The abuser often wears a mask for the rest of the world, while the Victim is the only person to see this behavior. This can be isolating for the Victim because they believe no one else will believe them because they haven't witnessed these behaviors (The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2023).

Abuse and mental illness can occur simultaneously. There are cases of people who have mental illness and are abusive to their partners. There are also cases of those who have mental illness and are healthy partners (The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2023).

If your partner has a mental illness and is abusive, it is important to remember that the mental illness and abusive behaviors must be taken care of separately. The abusive partner is responsible for creating their own plan for managing their abusive behavior and mental illness.

If your partner isn't owning up to their actions and is not seeking help, that may be a sign your partner is unwilling to change. In these cases, the abuse in the relationship may continue and escalates over time. 

The following questions can help you identify whether your partner is just abusive or has abusive behavior with mental health issues (The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2023):

• Does the partner yell or scream at others outside the relationship, such as coworkers, family members, etc.?
• Does the partner make others check in to see who they are with and where they are?
• Does the partner physically abuse others outside of the relationship?
• Does the partner verbally abuse or minimize others?
• Does the partner make threats to others when they say something they don't agree with?

If you answered no to most of these questions, your partner is likely abusive without having a mental illness. If you answered yes to most of the questions, then it's possible your partner is abusive and has a mental illness.

Regardless of whether your partner has a mental health issue, this is never an excuse for abuse. Abuse is a choice someone makes to control a partner. You deserve healthy, supportive, and safe relationships (The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2023). 

Types of Abuse and the Effect They Have on Mental Health

Different types of abuse have different effects on the mental health of victims (Plumptre, E., 2021). 

Effects of Physical Abuse

Experiencing Physical Abuse regularly and the stress of expecting abuse, has been linked to stress, PTSD, eating disorders, and more. Physical Abuse can also disrupt sleep patterns and has been linked to insomnia. There is also a link to engaging in substance abuse. Victims of Physical Abuse may find they are restless during daily activities and unable to do much due to fatigue.

Effects of Emotional Abuse

Being around someone whose mood changes dramatically can be mentally taxing. Victims of Emotional Abuse commonly experience anxiety and depression. It also isn't uncommon for the victim to develop phobias or substance use disorders. In some situations, Emotional Abuse can lead to suicide.

Effects of Sexual Abuse 

When a person's sexual autonomy is taken from them, this can produce adverse reactions in both the body and mind. Being forced into sexual acts can cause feelings of guilt. A victim of Sexual Abuse may find difficulty in holding onto a relationship and struggle with anxiety and depression. Victims may experience PTSD, poor sleep patterns, or sexual dysfunction. In some situations, Sexual Abuse can lead to suicide.

Effects of Financial Abuse

It can be emotionally and mentally taxing when someone withholds money from their partner. Those who experience Financial Abuse may be in a constant state of distress and anxiety over their economic status. These feelings can lead to depression and significantly affect the home by impacting the ability to carry out parental roles.

Victimization of Those With Mental Illnesses

In addition to abuse causing mental health issues, Victims with existing mental illnesses are often victimized (Carroll, H., 2016).

• Rates of victimization among severely mentally ill people are higher than those of the general population. Victimization also occurs more often in people with substance abuse issues.

• A National Crime Victimization Survey found that more than a quarter of patients with chronic mental health issues had been Victims of violent crime in the last year, which is 11 times higher than a member of the general population.

• In another study, patients with severe psychiatric disorders who were also substance abusers had more instances of violent victimization than those with a mental illness and no substance abuse issues. Most of the victimization was related to disorders such as schizophrenia, which can lead people to make poor judgments about whom they can trust.

• In another study, individuals with schizophrenia were tracked for three years. During that time, 34% of them were Victims of rape, assault or robbery. The people victimized were likely to have severe symptoms.

• A survey based on individuals with serious mental illnesses found that 20% of women and 8% of men had been sexually assaulted, and 33% of women and 37% of men had experienced physical violence.

Individuals with serious mental health issues are 11 times more likely to experience violent crime than those without mental illness, and women with serious mental health issues are more at risk than men.

Resources for Mental Health Issues and Abuse

If you or someone you know has a mental illness as a result of abuse, there are ways to get help (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2019).

1. Connect With a Norm Therapist®

A Norm Therapist® can help a victim recover from abuse. Norm Therapy® takes the victim through the process of identifying their abuse, strengths, and weaknesses and provides a solution to prepare them for formalized professional counseling and therapies. 

2. Call The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Call or text the Suicide And Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use Lifeline Chat on the web for 24-hour confidential support from a trained crisis counselor for someone in emotional distress or a suicide crisis.

3. Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free solution that connects veterans with a trained counselor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to all veterans or anyone who supports a veteran, even if they aren't registered with the VA. You can also use the Veterans Crisis Chat online.

4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Call the helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to find treatment services in your area. Their website also has an online treatment locator that can be searched by location. 

5. Health Resources and Services Administration

HRSA works to improve access to healthcare. The HRSA website has information on affordable healthcare, including health centers with sliding fee scales.

We at Abuse Refuge Org (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

Sources

Abuse and mental illness: Is there a connection? The National Domestic Violence Hotline. (2023, July 4). https://www.thehotline.org/resources/abuse-and-mental-illness-is-there-a-connection/#:~:text=Even%20if%20your%20partner%20does,treat%20you%20in%20that%20manner. 

DeAngelis, T. (2021, April 1). Mental illness and violence: Debunking myths, addressing realities. Monitor on Psychology. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/04/ce-mental-illness 

Plumptre, E. (2021, October 29). Mental health effects of different types of abuse. Verywell Mind. ;

Carroll, H. (2016, June). Victimization and serious mental illness. Treatment Advocacy Center. ;

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2019, August). Help for mental illnesses. National Institute of Mental Health. ;

THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY AND RELIGIOUS ABUSE: TRAUMA UNSEEN

by- Amanda Hildreth

Religious organizations vary in their attitudes towards members of the LGBTQ+ community both in and outside their community. When a member of their religious community comes out, the response can range from full acceptance to total ostracization. 

Many members of the LGBTQ+ community find a sense of well-being and support in affirming religious environments. However, many LGBTQ+ members also encounter negative experiences with religion that impact them long into the future after being a part of a disaffirming religious environment.

Spiritual Abuse and Trauma of the LGBTQ+ Community

Research shows that members of the LGBTQ+ community attending Evangelical Christian community churches are subject to Spiritual Abuse and suffer trauma (Barnes & Meyer, 2013; Cole & Harris, 2017, Gandy-Guedes et al., 2017, Gibbs & Goldbach, 2020). Religious trauma is the result of Spiritual Abuse and is defined as psychological damage resulting from religious messages, beliefs, or experiences (Stone, 2013).

Members of the LGBTQ+ community may experience several forms of spiritual trauma, including (Miriam Geiger, 2023):

• Being outed by parents or a peer to a religious leader without their consent, often with the intention of “saving” them or in hopes that they will change their sexuality or gender identity
• Being told you are responsible for unfortunate events such as sickness or accidents
• Religious-oriented conversion therapy or other interventions aimed at changing someone’s gender identity or sexuality
• Forced to be a part of religious rituals to eliminate someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation
• The belief that if you are LGBTQ+, it means you are possessed by demons or are the devil
• Telling you that you can’t serve in church leadership because of your gender identity
• Religious leaders refusing to officiate your wedding or acknowledge your marriage or relationship

Although the extreme examples of LGBTQ+ spiritual abuse are more visible, it is crucial to acknowledge that many individuals with religious trauma suffer silently for years, sometimes not realizing the effect it has on them (Miriam Geiger, 2023).

Signs of Spiritual Abuse 

There are several signs of Spiritual Abuse including (Change, Inc. St. Louis Counseling, 2015):

• Questions about religious practices or beliefs are viewed as questions against authority
• All-or-nothing thinking
• Inequality against women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ persons
• Withdrawal of outsiders
• Contradictory actions and values
• Signs of confusion and dissent are seen as sinful or unacceptable
• Mental health or physical health issues are denied, regarded as sinful, or that person’s fault
• Religious seekers are guided by fear and shame
• Physical, Sexual, Emotional, or Verbal Abuse from leaders is ignored or condoned

Spiritual Abuse isn’t limited to a specific religion or religious leaders. Any person of any belief or religion is able to perpetrate Spiritual Abuse. Signs of Spiritual Abuse between intimate partners can include when the abusive partner (National Domestic Violence Hotline, 2021):

• Insults the other person's religious or spiritual beliefs
• Prevents the partner from practicing their religion or beliefs
• Uses their partner’s beliefs or religion to manipulate or shame them
• Forces children to be raised in a faith that the other partner doesn’t agree with
• Uses religious texts or beliefs to minimize or rationalize abuse, including Physical, Emotional, Sexual, or Financial

Spiritual Abuse can be difficult to recognize because Victims may not realize they are being abused.

Long-Term Effects of Religious Abuse on LGBTQ+ Individuals

Studies have shown that denial of self and delayed sexual activity has resulted from a conflict between someone’s sexual identity and religious beliefs (Beagan & Hattie 2015; Jones, Power, & Jones, 2022; and Page et al., 2013). Sixty-eight percent of sexual minority individuals who experienced conflict between sexual and religious identity reported significant levels of depression (Subhi & Geelan, 2012). Further, 25% of those in the LGBTQ+ community who experienced conflict between their religious and sexual identity had suicidal ideations, and 29 % attempted suicide (Subhi & Geelan, 2012). 

The majority of Orthodox Jewish gay men had difficulty accepting their sexual identity and got married to hide it, didn’t disclose it to family and friends or the religious community, and engaged in religious rituals to get “rid” of the sin of being gay (Itzhaky & Kissil, 2015). LGBTQ+ youth that are involved in religions that cast negative or rejecting messages about the community have more internalized negative self-messages and a greater challenge in developing their sexual identity (Page et al., 2013). 

Other studies found that microaggressions within the religious community were categorized as a mischaracterization of identity, being viewed as a threat in the religious community, experiencing being outcast from the religious community, and relational distancing. Study participants discussed unconscious and direct microaggressions, and these negative experiences with the church had profound and long-lasting impact on the spiritual and psychological well-being of those who experienced them. They also suffered damage to their spiritual self-concept, and grief was common due to the impairment of relationships and isolation from the community (Hollier et al., 2022).

How To Recover From Religious Abuse

If you or someone you know has experienced Religious Abuse, there are several ways to cope and recover (Powell, 2021).

1. Recognize That Abuse Has Occurred

It may be simple to make excuses for abusers. Realize that what the abuser did was abusive regardless whether they had good intentions or not.

2. Connect to Support and Community

Connect and talk with a trusted family member, friend, or Norm Therapist® about what you have experienced. Look for community groups you can connect with that don’t involve religious beliefs. 

3. Create Healthy Boundaries

Experiencing Religious Abuse may mean that you don’t have healthy boundaries. You may have had your decisions made for you without your consent.

4. Know You Aren’t Alone

It's important to know that you aren’t alone in experiencing Religious Abuse. The ongoing trauma that you experience afterward is not a reflection of your coping skills or your ability to overcome your past.

We at ARO are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Barnes, D. M., & Meyer, I. H. (2013). Religious affiliation, internalized homophobia, and mental health in lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 82(4), 505–515. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-0025.2012.01185.x

Cole, C., & Harris, H. W. (2017). The Lived Experiences of People Who Identify as LGBT Christians: Considerations for Social Work Helping. Social Work and Christianity; Botsford, 44(1/2), 31–52

Gandy-Guedes, M., Havig, K., Natale, A. P., & McLeod, D. A. (2017). Trauma Impacts on LGBTQ People: Implications for Lifespan Development. In M. P. Dentato (Ed.), Social Work Practice with the LGBTQ Community: The Intersection of History, Health, Mental Health, and Policy Factors (pp. 118–137). Oxford University Press

Gibbs, J. J., & Goldbach, J. T. (2020). Religious Identity Dissonance: Understanding How Sexual Minority Adolescents Manage Antihomosexual Religious Messages. Journal of Homosexuality, 68(13), 2189–2213.

A. Stone (2013): Thou shalt not: treating religious trauma and spiritual harm with combined therapy

Group, 37 (4) (2013), pp. 323-337

Geiger, M. (2023, February 6). The impact of religious trauma on LGBTQ people. Miriam Geiger LGBTQ Therapy and Counseling. ;

Recovering from spiritual or religious injury. Change, Inc. St. Louis Counseling . (2022, September 25). https://www.changeincorporated.org/recovering-from-negative-religious-or-spiritual-experiences-counseling/

National Domestic Violence Hotline. (2021, November 8). What is spiritual abuse? The Hotline. ;

Page, M., Lindahl, K., & Malik, N. (2013). The Role of Religion and Stress in Sexual Identity and Mental Health Among LGB Youth. Journal of Research on Adolescence: The Official Journal of the Society for Research on Adolescence, 23(4).

Beagan & Hattie (2015). Religion, Spirituality, and LGBTQ Identity Integration, Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, 9:2, 92-117, DOI: 10.1080/15538605.2015.1029204

Jones, T. W., Power, J., & Jones, T. M. (2022). Religious trauma and moral injury from LGBTQA+ conversion practices. Social Science & Medicine. Religious trauma and moral injury from LGBTQA+ conversion practices - ScienceDirect

Subhi, N., & Geelan, D. (2012). When Christianity and homosexuality collide, understanding the potential intrapersonal conflict. Journal of Homosexuality, 59(10), 1382–1402. https://doi-org.libdata.lib.ua.edu/10.1080/00918369.2012.724638

Itzhaky, H., & Kissil, K. (2015). 'It’s a Horrible Sin. If They Find Out, I Will Not be Able to Stay’: Orthodox Jewish Gay Men’s Experiences Living in Secrecy. Journal of Homosexuality, 62(5), 621–643. 

Hollier, J., Clifton, S., & Smith-Merry, J. (2022). Mechanisms of religious trauma amongst queer people in Australia’s evangelical churches. CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK JOURNAL. EDSWSS. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-022-00839-x

Powell, A. (2021). Religious trauma syndrome: Examples, symptoms, & 7 Ways to Cope. Choosing Therapy. ;

Recognizing Emotional Abuse In Children

by- Hannah Jagiri

Emotional Abuse in children is a deeply concerning issue that often goes unnoticed, leaving lasting scars on the child's mental and emotional well-being. Unlike Physical Abuse, Emotional Abuse is more challenging to recognize, making it imperative for caregivers, parents, educators, and society to identify its signs.

This article aims to shed light on the subtle indicators of Emotional Abuse in children, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and intervention to protect their overall development and mental health. 

What Is Emotional Abuse of Children?

Emotional Abuse is a form of maltreatment that undermines a child's self-worth, emotional stability, and mental health. It can occur within families, schools, or any environment where children are present. This type of abuse may take various forms, including but not limited to constant criticism, humiliation, rejection, neglect, and exposure to family conflicts (Morin, 2022). 

Signs of Emotional Abuse

There are several signs of Emotional Abuse, including (Carey, 2018):

1. Excessive Fear or Anxiety

 Abused children may display excessive fear of authority figures, fear of failure, or fear of being abandoned, often lacking self-confidence and self-assurance.

2. Withdrawal and Isolation

Emotional Abuse can lead to children withdrawing from social interactions, isolating themselves, and avoiding relationships.

3. Sudden Changes in Behavior

Emotional distress may be present when behavior changes dramatically, such as becoming too quiet or displaying aggressive tendencies. 

4. Low Self-Esteem and Self-Blame

Children enduring Emotional Abuse may develop low self-esteem and blame themselves for the mistreatment they experience.

5. Emotional Outbursts

Frequent emotional outbursts or unpredictable mood swings could result from the emotional turmoil they are facing.

The Prevalence Of Emotional Abuse

Emotional Abuse of children is prevalent, with 36.3% worldwide experiencing Emotional Abuse and 18.4% experiencing emotional neglect (Gama et al., 2021). New information from the CDC also shows that since the last year of the pandemic, over half of high school-aged children in the United States reported that they had experienced Emotional Abuse by a parent or other adult living in the home (Chen, 2022). 

Emotional Abuse is also occurring in other parts of the world. Research suggests that 1 in 15 children in the UK has experienced Emotional Abuse (NSPCC Learning, 2021). Childhood Emotional Abuse is being self-reported by a more significant number of adults consisting of about 36% compared to Physical Abuse at 18% or Sexual Abuse ranging from 8-18 percent (Kumari, 2020). 

Conclusion

Recognizing Emotional Abuse in children is a responsibility shared by everyone in society. When we understand the signs and take proactive steps to address emotional mistreatment, we can create a safe and nurturing space for all children to grow and thrive emotionally. Raising awareness about this critical issue is the first step towards protecting our children and ensuring their mental well-being for a brighter future.

We are here to support you on your journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual, Spousal, Physical, Psychological, Narcissistic, Financial,  Self, Elderly, Isolation, Child, Workplace, Religious, Medical, Food, Authority, Educational, Political, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Child Sexual Exploitation, and Sex Trafficking, and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can impact the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation. 

Sources:

Morin, A. (2022, March 1). How to Recognize If a Child Is Being Emotionally Abused. Verywell Family. https://www.verywellfamily.com/what-is-emotional-child-abuse-4157502

Carey, E. (2018). Emotional and Psychological Abuse in Children. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/child-neglect-and-psychological-abuse

Gama, C. M. F., Portugal, L. C. L., Gonçalves, R. M., Junior, S. de S., Vilete, L. M. P., Mendlowicz, M. V., Figueira, I., Volchan, E., David, I. A., Oliveira, L. de, & Pereira, M. G. (2021, March 17). The invisible scars of emotional abuse: A common and highly harmful form of childhood maltreatment - BMC psychiatry. BioMed Central. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-021-03134-0 

Chen, K. (2022, April 22). New data shows emotional abuse increased among teens during pandemic - stanford medicine children’s health blog. Healthier, Happy Lives Blog. https://healthier.stanfordchildrens.org/en/data-shows-emotional-abuse-increased-among-teens-during-pandemic/ 

Statistics on emotional abuse. NSPCC Learning. (2021, December). https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/research-resources/statistics-briefings/emotional-abuse 

Kumari, V. (2020, November). Emotional abuse and neglect: Time to focus on prevention and Mental Health Consequences. The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7589986/#:~:text=Despite%20difficulties%20in%20recognising%20and,(8%E2%80%9318%25)%2C%20or 

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The Relationship Between Rape Victims And Suicidal Behavior

by- Hannah Jagiri

Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder are more frequently diagnosed in sexual assault survivors. Studies have shown that rape victims were 6.2 times more likely to develop PTSD (Kilpatrick, Edmunds, Seymour, 1992). 

Additionally, more than a third of women who have survived rape have thought about suicide at some point, and 13% have actually made an attempt (Kilpatrick, Edmunds, Seymour, 1992).

However, these effects can be prevented if survivors recognize the signs. Before discussing the signs, let’s look at what passive and active suicidal ideation means. 

Passive suicidal ideation occurs when you have thoughts of self-harm without acting on those thoughts, while active suicidal ideation is when you have suicidal thoughts and take action based on those invasive thoughts (Salt Lake Behavioral Health, 2022). 

The Mind Of Victims That Have Suicidal Thoughts

It is common for suicidal individuals to also have intrusive thinking. Suicidal thoughts are characterized by intrusive thinking, where you may feel constantly bombarded throughout the day, regardless of your emotional state (Asmussen, 2020). 

Intruding thoughts are the harsh static that your brain emits, making you aware and frequently anxious or furious when they come to the surface. The trauma that comes with being raped sometimes leaves Victims feeling hopeless and dejected. Without the right kind of help, depression, and suicidal thoughts can start to creep in (Asmussen, 2020). 

Warning Signs To Be Aware Of

Suicidal thoughts are similar to intrusive thoughts, they keep occurring, and they cloud your judgment. If you notice any of these various behaviors, please see a professional immediately or reach out to a Norm Therapist®(Asmussen, 2020).  

Pay attention if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following:

• Feeling hopeless and seeing life as meaningless 

• Changes in  eating or sleeping habits

• Always alone and isolated

• Feeling detached from people

Proactive Steps For Suicidal Thoughts

If you’ve been through any form of Sexual Assault and you find yourself having suicidal thoughts, follow the steps below to take charge of your life.

• Seek Help: The only way to prevent suicide is by seeking help from a professional or Norm Therapist®. Don’t wait until it gets worse before you seek help.

• Create A Healthy Sleep Schedule: Get a good night’s rest and remove all forms of distractions.

• Eat Healthy Food: What goes into your body is quite important because you need all the nutrients to balance your brain chemicals.

• Self Care: Take long walks or practice yoga.

You deserve to be happy, and your past isn’t a reflection of your future. Take control of your life and overcome  this battle with those who care. You deserve the peace you so desperately desire.

We at Abuse Refuge Org (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being through Norm Therapy®. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Kilpatrick, D.G., Edmunds, C.N., & Seymour, A.K. (1992). Rape in America: A report to the nation. Arlington, VA: National Victim Center and the Medical University of South Carolina.

What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active Suicidal Thoughts? (2022, January 5). p/https://saltlakebehavioralhealth.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-passive-and-active-suicidal-thoughts/ 

Asmussen, M. (2020, December 11). The Effects of Trauma: How Sexual Assault and Suicide are Connected. Victim Service Center Of Central Florida. ;

School Shootings: How To Start Solving The Problem

by- Amanda Hildreth

Many of us can't comprehend how anyone could shoot a child or youth, no matter their age, relationship, or other factors. Survivors of school shootings often suffer from traumatic stress symptoms, anxiety, and depression.

One of the most disturbing effects of a school shooting is the feeling of ongoing danger, and the school's climate and sense of community are forever altered.

What Makes School Shootings Different From Other Gun Violence?

School shootings impact children differently than other shootings for a variety of reasons. Due to the connection between teachers and students who have been victims of school shootings, and the loss of trust in the school and its ability to protect them, children exposed to school shootings may suffer more than others.

School shootings have also received increased media coverage, putting many students on edge. Exposure to gun violence in a school setting can also be even more traumatic if it causes intense fear (Lowe and Galea, 2017). 

School shootings are also likely to cause a significantly greater disruption to student learning due to potential teacher turnover, classroom resources, and teaching quality. 

Peer effects in schools are essential ; for example, education  and well-being are influenced by what other  peers do in a class setting, and the adverse impact of a student’s trauma after a school shooting can be amplified due to disruptions from other exposed students (Carrell et al., 2018).

Child-Related Statistics About School Shootings And Gun Violence

Here are some key statistics about gun violence and school shootings related to children.

• Every day 12 children die from gun violence in the United States. Another 32 children are shot and injured daily (Lee, Douglas, & Hemenway, 2022).
  
• Guns are the leading cause of death among children and teens, with 1 in10 deaths being due to gun violence by  someone aged 19 or younger (CDC, 2021).  

• Since Columbine in 1999, over 338,000 students have experienced gun violence at schools across the United States (Cox, Rich, Chong, Trevor, Muyskens, & Ulmanu, 2023).

• More school shootings occurred in 2022 than any other year since Columbine. 

• In 2022, 34 students and staff died, while over 43,000 children experienced gunfire at school (Cox, Rich, Chong, Trevor, Muyskens, & Ulmanu, 2023).

The Long-Term Effects Of School Shootings

Students that experience a school shooting suffer trauma that can create life-long consequences, including adverse  health and educational impacts.

• Students exposed to a school shooting can often lead to poor e educational outcomes. Recent studies found that test scores in Math and English fell dramatically at schools like Sandy Hook and other schools within the district following the attack (Levine & McKnight, 2021).

• School shootings also cause increased absenteeism. After Sandy Hook, chronic absenteeism rose by 3 percent. 

• Studies also suggest that unpleasant  health consequences are a part of school shootings. Antidepressant prescriptions for young adults near school shootings rise after an occurrence (Levine & McKnight, 2021).

• There is also evidence of a long-term increase in mortality rates, including suicide, and accidental deaths among boys who have been a part of school shootings.

• School shootings also create high financial costs for school districts. After a shooting, schools have to increase the money spent on support services and overall security. After a shooting, there is typically an increase of 3.5 percent in spending on support services, and the overall per-student cost increases  by 10 percent (Levine & McKnight, 2021).

Why Violence Is Occurring In The United States

As with most types of behavior, there is a combination of opportunity and inclination. Inclination, in general, has contributions from both nature and nurture. Factors related to nurture may include a decrease in adult supervision and the repetition of violence in movies, cartoons, and video games. These conditions create support for and model  violent behavior. We have made things more challenging  for children and given them less help than before.

“You have to look at it as a psychologization of youth. Who are their parents? Having access to weapons or having access to television and media are both two dynamic issues to deal with”  (Gibson, 2023).

“You can see by the way video games are designed, it does teach children how to plan their attacks, how to aim, how to look at the recoil, but they will definitely find themselves in a set of circumstances where they get to test out, does it really feel like the game?”(Gibson, 2023).

Nature also contributes to a propensity for violence in many ways. One study showed that violent acts were reported in 3.7% of people tested (Swanson, Holzer, Ganju, et al., 2006). The rate of self-reported violent behavior was 2% for those with no psychiatric diagnosis and increased five-fold with schizophrenia.

Substance abuse by itself or any two psychiatric disorders combined was associated with a 10-fold increase. Most violent individuals didn’t have a mental health diagnosis, and the majority of those with mental health issues weren’t violent.  Although most mentally ill individuals aren’t violent, 20% of those in the study with a mental illness or substance use issue included nearly half the violent individuals. (Torrey, 2006).  

How mental illness affects violence differs for each illness. For example, the combination of types of delusions or hallucinations and a lack of insight are associated with the violent behavior of schizophrenia (Junginger, J., 1995).

Medications do reduce the symptoms and potential violent acts. However, when medications are not taken as prescribed and combined with substance use, the risk of violent acts increases (Swartz, Swanson, Hiday, Borum, Wagner, and Burns, 1998).

Identifying and consistently treating mental illnesses that increase the risk of violent acts is just one part of violence prevention.

Understanding Warning Signs Of School Shootings 

Before we can begin to know how to stop school shootings from happening, there are some key factors to know.

• In 4 of 5 school shootings, at least one person knew  the shooter’s plan and didn’t report it (US Department of Education And Secret Service, 2004).

“All an active shooter is a roving ambush. They catch you by surprise in an area that they have already walked and already surveyed. They know where the cover is, they know where the concealment is. They know what angels of attack or coordinated fire they need to have. They know where to shoot and why to shoot there” (Gibson, 2023).

• 93% of school shooters plan their attacks (US Department of Education And Secret Service, 2004). It’s crucial to see the signs and get help.

• Almost all school shooters shared concerning messages or images. More than 75% raised concern from others before  a shooting. In the most documented school shooting cases, bystanders saw the warning signs and never raised concerns to others (US Secret Service, 2020). 

Now that we understand the statistics, here are some signs to look for in potential school shooters:

• Withdrawing from friends or family
• Social isolation
• Bullying, especially if it is towards a certain race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation
• Being irritable, becoming easily angered 
• Showing thoughts of harming themselves or someone else
• Bragging about access to guns
• Making direct threats

How To Stop School Shootings

There are some measures we can take to stop school shootings, including:

• Situational Awareness
• Addressing Gun Culture
• Better Training For Police

“So, what do we need to do to combat this? First, a viscerally connective education, a cultural shift in gun ownership, that culture needs to change as well as the general environment around our children. We need better training for our police officers and our school security” (Gibson, 2023).

What Is Situational Awareness?

Situational awareness is an essential practice to recognize what is normal and what is abnormal given any situation signaling potential danger. When you become more aware, you can assess, identify, report, and avoid threats (Collins, 2022). 

Situational awareness is all about allowing your sixth sense to play a role in your everyday life by:

• Being mindful of your environment and surroundings
• Being mindful of those around you, and anything that could be out of place.
• Assessing actions and activities that could affect you.

“If you are aware of your surroundings and the impact of your surroundings on you, often times you are more careful not only about hurting others but hurting yourself” (Gibson, 2023).

“Once people are situationally aware they know what their options are when it comes to mass shootings” (Gibson, 2023).

The Value Of Situational Awareness In Schools

Situational awareness can be a crucial line of defense against any threat, including school shootings, student self-harm, and more. Even having multiple security officers at the school is no guarantee of protection because they cannot be everywhere. 

Combined with other safety measures, situational awareness can provide an added layer of protection by placing everyone in a security mindset, including administrators, custodial staff, teachers, students, and parents (Collins, 2022).

An aware campus where every student, parent, staff, and teacher is alert can equal thousands of eyes and ears. Ensuring that every person in the school community understands situational awareness and what to do when faced with a threat makes a situation much easier to handle. 

“Remember, the four major principles of an ambush, the very first one is surprise. Surprise is probably the one thing that gets more people killed than anything else. In our society, we aren’t taught to duck, we are taught to look up and stare and pick up our cameras and start filming.” (Gibson, 2023).

Addressing Gun Culture

“We have numbed our society into believing that mass shootings are a traditional understanding of how guns are used in our society. Kids do not possess the level of discernment to interpret the way guns work in our society” (Gibson, 2023).

Studies in several disciplines have explained how complex social, legal, and historical factors have created a culture that favors individual rights over gun control.

Changing gun culture is necessary to change  gun violence in the United States. Changing our gun culture will require the creation of a new narrative that makes gun violence a public health issue and focuses on the consequences of gun violence on the population's health (Abdalla, Keyes, Galea, 2020). 

We can take a few key steps to change the gun culture (Abdalla, Keyes, Galea, 2020): 

1. Taking a multidisciplinary approach to gun violence can help us identify the actions needed to push against our current gun culture. Taking a multidisciplinary approach suggests that addressing gun violence will require addressing the root cause of gun culture. 

2. Public health has little to no choice but to engage with the media to change the discussion of gun violence as a public health emergency rather than a political debate. This framing can be done by collaborating with the media to prevent gun violence research to a broader audience. Changing culture will require more deliberate and sustained campaigns to focus on the human cost of gun violence.

3. Progress will require us to collaborate with allies with similar goals to advance the thought of gun violence as a public health emergency. We can align with institutions that shape the culture in the United States, including churches and movie production companies.

Better Police Training

“Police have to be extra careful when they get there, going in guns blazing is going to get you or many innocent other people killed. So, you have to have a certain kind of way that you attack  these shooters, and it has to be more precise” (Gibson, 2023).

All police responding to a school shooting should be taught to address and eliminate the threat immediately . 

Before Columbine, police believed that a school shooting was a job for SWAT. Police would contain the situation and then contact the SWAT team, which was a mistake. Police now focus on getting resources into the building to stop the threat promptly.  (Police Executive Research Forum, 2014).

It is also crucial for different agencies to receive similar training, including EMS, fire departments, and anyone else who responds to active shooter situations. It is crucial to update tactics as situations change consistently. Everyone must be trained in the same ways that effectively manage active shooter situations (Police Executive Research Forum, 2014).

We at AbuseRefugeOrg (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete wellbeing. We bring education and awarness to 21 different types of abuse, including Psychologic Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Workplace Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Elderly Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can impact the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Lowe, Sarah R., and Sandro Galea, “The mental health consequences of mass shootings,” Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 2017, 18 (1), 62–82.

Carrell, Scott E., Mark Hoekstra, and Elira Kuka, “The long-run effects of disruptive peers,” American Economic Review, 2018, 108 (11), 3377–3415.

Lee, L. K., Douglas, K., & Hemenway, D. (2022, April 21). Crossing lines — a change in the leading cause of death among U.S children. The New England Journal Of Medicine. ;

CDC. (2021, February). A Public Health Crisis Decades In The Making: A Review Of 2019 CDC Gun Mortality Data. 

Cox, J. W., Rich, S., Chong, L., Trevor, L., Muyskens, J., & Ulmanu, M. (2023, April 3). More than 352,000 students have experienced gun violence at school since Columbine. The Washington Post. ;

Levine, P. B., & McKnight, R. (2021, January 4). Exposure to a school shooting and subsequent well-being. NBER. ;

Swanson, J. W., Holzer, C. E., Ganju, V. K., & Jono, R. T. (2006, April 1). Violence and Psychiatric Disorder in the Community: Evidence From the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Surveys. Psychiatry Online. https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/ps.41.7.761 

Torrey, E. F. (2006, April 1). Violence and Severe Mental Illness: The Effects of Substance Abuse and Nonadherence to Medication. Psychiatry Online. https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/ps.45.7.653 

Junginger, J. (1995). Command hallucinations and the prediction of dangerousness. Psychiatric Services, 46(9), 911–914. https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.46.9.911

Swartz, M. S., Swanson, J. W., Viday, V. A., Borum, R., Wagner, H. R., & Burns, B. J. (1998, February 1). Violence and Severe Mental Illness: The Effects of Substance Abuse and Nonadherence to Medication. The American Journal Of Psychiatry. https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/ajp.155.2.226 

UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE AND UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION. (2004, June). THE FINAL REPORT AND FINDINGS OF THE SAFE SCHOOL INITIATIVE: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PREVENTION OF SCHOOL ATTACKS IN THE UNITED STATES. ;

United States Secret Service. (2020, August). Mass Attacks In Public Spaces. United States Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center. ;

Collins, R. (2022, November 7). Situational Awareness: Taking ownership of School Safety. PTA One Voice Blog. ;

Abdalla, S. M., Keyes, K. M., & Galea, S. (2020, October 27). A public health approach to tackling the role of culture in shaping the gun violence epidemic in the United States. Public health reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974). ;

The police response to active shooter incidents. Police Executive Research Forum. (2014, March). ;

Michael Gibson, Former US Army Special Forces Green Beret & Creator of Norm Therapy. NormTherapy.com. 

An Analysis Of The Movie "Women Talking": The Effects Of Rape And Abuse

by- Hannah Jagiri

The movie "Women Talking" is centered around a group of women who have been constantly raped and abused by men in their community . The movie opens with a group of women that find out that the bruises on their thighs and semen they've been waking up to haven't been caused by Satan, demons, or wild female imagination like they have been led to believe but by the men of their colony. They face the dilemma of staying, doing nothing, or leaving. Rape and Domestic Abuse can cause deep-seated psychological and physical trauma. 

Throughout the movie, we can see the effects of rape and abuse on the women as some of the women begin showing the classic signs of PTSD.

The Effects Of Rape And Domestic Violence

There is no singular response to abuse. People respond differently, and just because not all Victims of abuse and Domestic Violence respond the same way doesn't make light of the situation. Below are examples of the effects of rape and Domestic Abuse.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

In the movie, all the women show signs of severe PTSD. Still, notable mention is Mejal, who experiences extreme panic attacks from the constant rape she has endured . 

One of the symptoms of PTSD is unexplained outbursts. Salome and Mariche cannot  contain their rage because of the pent-up feelings inside them. They constantly throw a fit whenever they want to express themselves, almost as if they have no control over their emotions.

Flashbacks

Victims of Sexual and Domestic Abuse often get flashbacks of their trauma, which hinders them from functioning at an optimal level. The movie employs a unique literary technique to not just show the flashbacks of the women's traumas but alsohow how reliving the trauma impacts  them.

The Feeling Of Being Powerless

Some of the women in the colony felt powerless and even chose to stay and do nothing. This is how abusers gain total control over their Victims. They make them feel like there is no way out of the situation and that trying to make any move against their abusers will be futile.

Aside from the psychological effects, physical trauma is displayed  on the women's bodies in various ways. We witness bruised thighs, lost teeth from Domestic Abuse, and black eyes from a drunk, abusive husband.

There are also instances of recurring panic attacks and other unexpected consequences of the men's actions. Ona is pregnant and  forced to become a mother, while Salome endures a day and a half of travel to get her four-year-old daughter antibiotics. 

In the same way that the physical impact differs from woman to woman, so do each of these women's responses. Seething with rage, Salome tries to kill one of the men, while Ona is left with so many profound questions. Mariche, whose husband is an abuser, has accepted what she feels is her reality. 

Women Talking touches on various societal issues while  shedding light on how people respond differently to abuse and where is one abuse, there are almost always several. 

There are so many abuses to be aware of and Abuse Refuge Org (ARO) supports Victims of Abuse and seeks to educate. 

We at ARO are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse, including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Political Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Exploitation, and Sex Trafficking and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can impact  the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Gluck, S. (2021, December 17). Effects of Rape: Psychological and Physical Effects of Rape, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2023, April 19 from

https://www.healthyplace.com/abuse/rape/effects-of-rape-psychological-and-physical-effects-of-rape

Santiago, J. M., McCall-Perez, F., Gorcey, M., & Beigel, A. (1985).

Long-term psychological effects of rape in 35 rape victims.

The American Journal of Psychiatry, 142 (11), 1338–1340. https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.142.11.1338

Sex Trafficking: Erase The Stigma

by- Amanda Hildreth

Human trafficking is one of the most devastating human rights violations happening in the modern world. Every 30 seconds a person or child is trafficked,3.8 million adults are trafficked and forced into sexual exploitation, and one million children are trafficked for forced sexual exploitation every year (Safe Horizon, 2022).

What Is Sex Trafficking And How Does It Happen?

Sex Trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation, obtaining, harboring, or soliciting of a person for the purpose of a commercial sex act that is induced by force or coercion (Laboratory To Combat Human Trafficking, 2023). 

When a person is sex trafficked they are recruited, isolated and transported and then forced into sexual exploitation. There are several parts of how Sex Trafficking happens, including (The Canadian Centre To End Human Trafficking, 2020):

• Recruitment: Sex traffickers approach victims in several ways including pretending to be a potential friend or boyfriend, contacting them over social media, posting ads for jobs, or threatening or kidnapping them. They often use false promises such as money, work or education opportunities, and more.

• Traffickers often prey on Victims that are looking for a better life, an opportunity, or a relationship. 

• Transportation And Isolation: Victims are often moved around by traffickers both to isolate them from people they know and areas that are familiar. Victims are often moved from hotel to hotel and from one location to another location. 

• Exploitation: Exploitation is the critical element of Sex Trafficking when the Victim is forced into sexual exploitation by having them fear for their safety or the safety of someone they know.

• Traffickers will often use intimidation, violence, or deception to influence Victims and manipulate them to do what they want.

How Does Sex Trafficking Happen With Children?

What people typically envision when they think of a child being sex trafficked involves stories of children being kidnapped by strangers and forced into trafficking, however a study found that fewer than 10 percent of child Sex Trafficking cases involved kidnapping (Kotrla, Wommack, 2011). 

Sex traffickers tend to prey on people who are socially or economically vulnerable such as children living in poverty and those who have experienced Sexual or Physical Abuse, or addiction. They act as a friend to the child offering gifts, meals, or someone to talk to. In certain cases, traffickers may also use another child to recruit Victims through public places, online, job opportunities and more (Polaris, 2020).

Using these different methods, the trafficker becomes someone that the Victim grows to trust, so traffickers don’t need to kidnap their Victims, as they can easily convince them to follow willingly. This can later lead Victims to feel self-blame, shame and guilt when they later try to escape their traffickers. 

It is also common for parents or family members to sell children into Sex Trafficking for drugs, money or something else they value. 

Men,Boys, And Sex Trafficking

Most often when people think of Sex Trafficking, females are viewed as the most common Victims with the trafficker being a male, however men and boys are Victims of Sex Trafficking as well. Sex Trafficking affects all genders. 

In 2016, boys made up 36% of Sex Trafficking Victims in the United States (Swaner, Labriola, Rempel, Walker, Spadafore, 2016). In 2020, 78% of reports of online solicitation involved girls and 15% involved boys (National Center For Missing And Exploited Children, 2023). The range of these estimates is due to underreporting and stigma. 

The Stigma With Males And Sex Trafficking

Based on research, informants asserted that law enforcement has very little understanding of sexually exploited boys and men (ECPAT-USA, 2008). 

Many officers see males found in trafficking stings as sex addicts or just doing it for the money. These views prevent males from being identified as Victims and being assessed for sexual exploitation. There is a stigma that males should be strong enough to fight off a trafficker so they can’t be Victims. Sometimes these men are also considered to be gay instead of trafficked (Fight The New Drug, 2023). 

Why Sex Trafficking Happens

Sex Trafficking continues to happen for a number of reasons, including (National Human Trafficking Hotline, 2023):

1. Low Risk: Traffickers believe there is little risk compared to the consequences. Although there have been penalties in recent years, traffickers believe the high profit of trafficking is worth the risk. Low risk can be increased by ineffective laws, lack of investigation, missing resources for Victim recovery, lack of training, and low community awareness.

2. High Profit: When individuals buy commercial sex, a market is created that makes it profitable for traffickers to exploit Victims. 

If left unchecked, trafficking will continue in an environment where a trafficker can make substantial money with low risk.

What Can We Do To Prevent Sex Trafficking?

Sex Trafficking is preventable and there are a number of things you can do if you feel that a person is being sex trafficked, including (Office On Trafficking In Persons, 2023): 

1. Know The Signs Of Sex Trafficking

It is important to know the indicators of Sex Trafficking, which can include (National Human Trafficking Hotline, 2023):

• Not wanting to engage in commercial sex but being  pressured into it.
• Liveing where they work or are transported by guards between the home and workplace.
• Wanting to stop  commercial sex but expressed being  scared or unable to leave the situation.
• A child that lives with a dependent that has an abuse or substance abuse problem.
• Working in an industry where it can become common to be pressured into performing sex acts for money such as an illicit massage business, strip clubs, etc.
• A controlling parent, guardian or partner that won’t allow them to meet with anyone alone or monitors their communications, movements, and spending. 

2. Report A Tip

Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline by calling 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to BEFREE (233733). 

3. Raise Awareness

Share Sex Trafficking awareness resources in your community from sources such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

4. Volunteer

Volunteer at a local anti-trafficking organization in your community or for Abuse Refuge Org. Ask if there is any way you could provide support byorganizing events or just raising awareness.

5. Train

Register for training through the National Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Center. Their training helps professionals to identify and address the needs of Victims affected by trafficking.

6. Put Your Skills To Use

Use your everyday work skills to prevent trafficking. For example, if you work in a school, suggest anti-trafficking protocols, if you work in a hospital, learn about the proper response to trafficking and share with your coworkers, etc. 

7. Contact Representatives

Contact your local representatives and ask them how they are addressing trafficking. Make them aware of the needs of your community. 

We at Abuse Refuge Org (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete well-being. We bring awareness and education to 21 different types of abuse including Sexual Abuse, Spousal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Narcissistic Abuse, Financial Abuse, Self Abuse, Elderly Abuse, Isolation Abuse, Child Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying,  Workplace Abuse, Religious Abuse, Medical Abuse, Food Abuse, Authority Abuse, Educational Abuse, Child Sexual Explotation, Sex Trafficking, and Political Abuse and help others heal and find peace. Please support our efforts by going to GoARO.org to learn how you can make an impact on the Abuse Care Community and provide life-saving financial assistance with a donation.

References

Human trafficking statistics & facts. Safe Horizon. (2022, August 11). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://www.safehorizon.org/get-informed/human-trafficking-statistics-facts/#statistics-and-facts/ 

Human trafficking – labor trafficking colorado. Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking. (2023, January 6). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://combathumantrafficking.org/about-human-trafficking/?gclid=CjwKCAjw3POhBhBQEiwAqTCuBkme4CpxEK8G1dFHrxe09A8NmoQJeiQRB7Cb4xPyo_wxS4ka2gIUsBoCRB8QAvD_BwE#1591200766938-668893a7-bbc8 

The Canadian Centre to End Human trafficking. The Canadian Centre To End Human Trafficking. (2020). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

Kotrla, Kimberly and Wommack, Beth Ann (2011) "Sex Trafficking of Minors in the U.S.: Implications for Policy, Prevention and Research," Journal of Applied Research on Children: Informing Policy for Children at Risk: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 5. Available at: http://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/childrenatrisk/vol2/iss1/5

What we know about how child Sex Trafficking happens. Polaris. (2020, August 28). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

Sawner, R., Labriola, M., Rempel, M., Walker, A., & Spadafore, J. (2016, June). Home | Office of Justice Programs. Youth Involvement in the Sex Trade: A National Study . Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

Child sexual abuse material. National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. (2023). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

ECPAT-USA. (2008). And boys too - static1.squarespace.com. And Boys Too. Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://static1.squarespace.com/static/594970e91b631b3571be12e2/t/5977b2dacd0f688b2b89e6f0/1501016795183/ECPAT-USA_AndBoysToo.pdf 

Did you know men and boys can be victims of Sex Trafficking, too? Fight the New Drug. (2023). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

Human trafficking. National Human Trafficking Hotline. (2023). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/type-trafficking/human-trafficking#:~:text=Instead%2C%20human%20trafficking%20is%20fueled,profit%20from%20the%20existing%20demand. 

Office On Trafficking In Persons. (2023). 10 ways you can help end trafficking. The Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

Recognizing the signs. National Human Trafficking Hotline. (2023). Retrieved April 17, 2023, from ;

The effects of Domestic Violence Against Women

by- Hannah Jagiri

We all know Domestic Violence against women is wrong, but do we really know the long-term effects of Domestic Violence on women? The negative consequences include impairment to a person’s health, long-term damage to children, and harm to communities like job loss and homelessness. A mental health problem like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is more likely to strike women who have experienced abuse or other trauma.

Long-Term Effects Of Domestic Violence On Women

Nearly 4,774,000 women in the United States experience Domestic Violence by an intimate partner every year (LiveYourDream.Org, 2019).

Physically, the effect of Domestic Violence against women ranges from a trip to the ER, and sometimes women who have been severely beaten are often treated for loss of consciousness as a result of this vile act. Two out of three patients were assaulted by their current spouses, nine% were abused by a former spouse, and 12% were assaulted by someone they were dating (Hatch, Grunfeld, Mackay, Cowan, 1999).

Women who were abused by a former or current partner experienced severe violence, with 81%being kicked, bitten, or hit, 60% being pushed, grabbed, or shoved, 55%being threatened, and 30% being choked (Hatch, Grunfeld, Mackay, Cowan, 1999).

A mental health problem like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is more likely to strike women who have experienced abuse or other trauma.

Gleason discovered that battered women had a considerably greater frequency of severe depression than those in the NIMH Epidemiologic Catchment Area study using psychiatric diagnostic techniques. In the same study, severe depression was more common (63%) than post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which was identified in 40% of participants (W.J. Gleason, 1993).

In contrast, depression in women as a whole is predicted to have a prevalence of 9.3% and a lifetime risk of 20% to 25%. The number of guidelines for treating depression in primary care settings is rising. Yet it hasn’t always been understood that depression and Domestic Violence need to be assessed for and treated if necessary (W.J Gleason, 1993).

Lastly, women who have been Physically Abused have been reported to suffer from severe PTSD and Substance Abuse. There are so many long-term effects of violence. If you feel your life is being threatened by your partner or you are being abused, seek help immediately. The pain you’d feel leaving is nothing compared to the damage that would be done to you.

We at AbuseRefugeOrg (ARO) are here to support you in your personal healing journey to complete wellbeing. We bring awareness and education to thirteen different types of abuse to help others heal and find peace. If you would like to learn more and donate to help others find refuge, please visit GoARO.org.

References

Domestic Violence Facts And Figures. Domestic Violence Facts and Figures. (2019). Retrieved March 5, 2023, from https://act.liveyourdream.org/domestic-violence-facts-and-figures-cpc/

Hotich, D., Grunfeld, A. F., Mackay, K., & Cowan, L. (1999, March 2). An emergency department-based domestic violence intervention program: Findings after One Year. The Journal of Emergency Medicine. Retrieved March 5, 2023, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0736467995020519

Gleason, W. J. (1993). Mental disorders in battered women: An empirical study. Violence and victims. Retrieved March 5, 2023, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8292565/