Table 2: Types of Sexual Violence Form of Violence Behaviors Sexual assault of men and boys
Sexual assault, specifically against men and boys
Intimate partner sexual violence
Intimate partner rape, marital rape, and spousal rape
Incest
Sexual contact between family members may constitute child sexual abuse, crimes of incest, sexual assault, and rape
Drug-facilitated sexual assault
The use of alcohol or drugs to compromise an individual’s ability to consent to sexual assault
Source: Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN), 2020a.
Stalking Stalking is a pattern of repeated and unwanted attention, harassment, contact, or any other course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear (RAINN, 2020b). Stalking has a high propensity for the development of physical violence and injury. When technology is used to send unwanted emails or pornography, this is classified as cyberstalking. Interestingly, it has been documented that “the less of a relationship between the stalker and target that occurred before the stalking, the more delusional and mentally disturbed the stalker” (New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, n.d.). Healthcare Consideration: Domestic violence encompasses various forms beyond physical injuries, and it is essential for healthcare providers to recognize this broader spectrum. While visible signs of abuse may be absent, healthcare providers should consistently screen and evaluate for indicators of emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial abuse, among others. By maintaining a comprehensive approach to assessment, healthcare providers can better identify and address the diverse manifestations of domestic violence, ensuring appropriate support and intervention for all survivors. Weapons of abuse Everytown (2019) reports that over 600 American women are shot to death by an intimate partner per year. Although this number is staggering, it does not consider the many unreported nonfatal gun-related incidents. Many other weapons or perceived weapons can also be used to assault a person. Physical violence using the body (fists, feet, hands) or other weapons (knives, scissors, razors) is the first thought when discussing weapons.
Self-Assessment Quiz Question #1 Megan and her partner Elise have been together for 3 years. Elise’s former partner, Michael, has regularly followed Megan and Elise to various social events. Michael texts Elise frequently, demanding that Elise separate from Megan and return to him. Michael has even begun to wait outside Elise’s workplace and watch her arrive and leave each day. Megan and Elise are frightened and believe that Elise is a victim of domestic violence. Under these circumstances, Elise: a. Is not experiencing domestic violence since its definition does not include violence committed against members of the same gender. b. Is being stalked by Michael, and this behavior is considered part of domestic/sexual violence. c. Knows the definition of domestic violence does not yet include members of the LGBTQ community. d. Knows stalking is considered part of domestic violence, but since Michael is a former partner, this behavior can be reported to authorities but not as domestic violence. Healthcare Consideration: Weapons capable of causing harm extend beyond firearms or knives and can include various objects that may be used to inflict injury on individuals. It is crucial for healthcare providers to broaden their assessment of weapons to encompass any item with the potential to cause harm. By adopting a comprehensive perspective, healthcare providers can more effectively identify potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in their care.
HOW ABUSED WOMEN VIEW THEIR HEALTH
Additional comorbidities include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. This increases the risk of misusing medications or attempting suicide. In addition, many women who experience domestic or sexual violence may use drugs, drinking, smoking, or overeating to cope (Office of Women’s Health, 2019). Abused individuals who perceive poor personal health typically think of themselves as weak, which may prevent them from leaving an abusive situation. These perceptions
When women are abused emotionally or physically, this creates a phenomenon where they view their health as weak or problematic. According to the Office of Women’s Health (2019), violence against women is linked to long-term health problems, such as arthritis, asthma, chronic pain, migraines, immune issues, and irritable bowel syndrome. Violence and abuse can lead to additional psychological suffering and emotional impact that can significantly impact a person’s health (Office of Women’s Health, 2019).
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Book Code: MIL1226
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