NCJ Number
184749
Editor(s)
Carol Slatkin,
Melanie Soich
Date Published
2000
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video presents the experiences of abused women and their employers regarding the impact of domestic violence on the individual and the workplace and explains to employers and co-workers how they can assist employees who are in abusive relationships.
Abstract
The speakers explain that domestic violence is a pattern of power and controlling behavior that may include physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, as well as stalking, isolation of the victim, or harassing telephone calls at the workplace. The discussion also notes that victims often stay in abusive relationships due to fear of further victimization, a lack of support and resources if they leave the relationship, and other people’s messages that they should stay in the relationship. The speakers advise co-workers to reach out to abuse victims, to express their concern, to emphasize that resources are available, and to refer victims to an employee assistance program or the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The discussion emphasizes that the victim’s stress may result in the employer’s loss of a valuable employee, that employers can train employees to reach out and help victims, and that these efforts are not costly to employers. The speakers also advise employers to use community resources, including local domestic violence programs, courts, and law enforcement and to establish workplace policies that state that the employee is not responsible for the perpetrator’s actions. The discussion also notes that the victim may make several attempts before leaving an abusive relationship and that co-workers should be supportive. Information about resources and contacts