Family member is victim of physical abuse
Both men and women can become victims of physical abuse. Your family member is not to blame. No matter what he or she did, violence is not right.
Physical abuse may include hitting, pushing, shaking, slapping, kicking, pinching, choking, and burning or threats of harm to other family members or pets. Drugging someone with medicine, tying someone up, and physical punishment of any kind also are types of abuse. The act of violence may come from a stranger, acquaintance, or from a close friend or another family member. Many victims of violence know their attacker.
Physical abuse causes bodily injuries, such as bruises, burns, fractures, cuts, punctures, or organ damage.
It may be hard for your family member to ask for help or talk about the abuse. There are many reasons he or she may feel this way. Abusers often use psychological, emotional, and physical abuse along with apologies, promises, and affection to control their victims. Your family member may feel confused and hold on to the hope that the abuser will change. The abuser may ask for forgiveness, make promises to stop, act loving, or buy the person gifts. Along with painful times, there may be loving moments and happy memories. The abuser may be a good provider or parent.
Once abuse starts, it usually gets worse if steps are not taken to stop it. If your family member was physically abused or was injured by the abuse, it is important for him or her to seek help and continue to get help for as long as it is needed. Have your family member contact the local adult protective agency, police, or a health professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or counsellor. You can also call a local rape crisis centre or a local mental health clinic. Any of these people can help your family member deal with feelings, get medical treatment if needed, and take steps to stop the abuser.
If you think a child or family member has been physically abused, you can help them by reporting the abuse. Resources are available for help.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: April 24, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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