By Holly Cochran PhD

Child Abuse

Child abuse is often hidden. Abusers work hard to cover up the signs of abuse. Children are less likely to report it. Adults are always responsible for the safety of children. Learn about child abuse and what to do to protect children.

Types of Child Abuse

Any mistreatment of a minor child that results in a physical injury, sexual exploitation, psychological harm, emotional distress or death can be defined as child abuse. Child abuse also includes failing to provide for the needs of a child.

Physical Abuse

Physical Abuse means causing injury or pain to a child. It can be as simple as a slap or a shove, or as severe as a beating, burning or cutting. Usually, physical abuse happens on purpose, but not always. Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) or Shaken Baby Syndrome is a type of physical abuse.

Sometimes parents do not know the boundaries between discipline and abuse, or they may lash out at their child in anger. In abuse, unlike discipline, the attacks are unpredictable, and the child is never sure what behavior will trigger an assault. The abuser uses fear of the assault to control the child’s behavior, and the abuse is triggered by the abuser’s anger.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Emotional abuse can be more damaging to the child than physical abuse. Emotional abuse can cause children to lose confidence in the world and for them to lose trust in others. It can take the form of threatening, shouting, name calling or withdrawing affection from the child.

Sometimes, emotional and psychological abuse means forcing a child to live in an environment where they witness domestic violence or other violent acts. An emotionally abused child might be told they are worthless, lazy, ugly or stupid, and they come to believe this. It may even include forcing the child to witness the abuse of a pet or a sibling.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse always affects a child’s emotional well-being as well as their physical health. It happens to boys and girls of every age. It might involve physical contact, forced oral sex or penetration, or non-contact abuse such as being made to witness sexual acts or view pornography.

Neglect

Child neglect is the most common form of child abuse. Neglect is a pattern of failing to provide for the basic needs of the child, including the emotional as well as physical, medical and educational needs. Sometimes adults use neglect to control the child’s behavior. At other times, the neglect is unintentional when parents do not understand the needs of children. Neglect also occurs when parents are too poor to provide for their children.

Effects of Child Abuse

Every kind of child abuse and neglect leaves a lasting scar on the child, and the costs of abuse and neglect are staggering. Abuse and neglect can damage a child’s sense of self-worth, their ability to engage in healthy adult relationships and to have a normal adult life at work, home, and school. Some of the effects include:

• Lack of trust
• Relationship problems
• Fear of being controlled or abused by others
• Unhealthy relationships
• Feeling worthless or damaged
• Fear of pursuing goals
• Shame
• Trouble controlling emotions
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Anger management problems
• Substance abuse problems
• Attachment disorders
• Slower than normal development

Know the Numbers About Child Abuse and Neglect

• A study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) showed that just one year of confirmed cases of child abuse and neglect is projected to cost $124 billion over the lifetime of those victims.
• In a 12 month period studied by Child Abuse and Neglect, the International Journal, there were 1740 fatal child abuse cases and 579,000 non-fatal abuse and neglect cases.
• Each death due to child abuse or neglect costs the United States approximately $1.3 million, almost all of which is the money that child would have earned in their lifetime if they had lived.
• The lifetime cost for each victim of abuse or neglect who lives is over $200,000, approximately equal to the lifetime cost of care for someone who suffers a stroke.

These costs are paid for by the public – the taxpayer – for the most part. They include:

• Healthcare costs
• Criminal justice costs
• Child welfare costs
• Special education costs
• Productivity losses

Often, the first consequence of child abuse and neglect are emotional and mental health problems. Sexual abuse often results in the most significant impairment.

• Sexually abused children are at much higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and suicide attempts.
• Symptoms of psychological problems from sexual abuse result in significant disruption in normal development and adult life.
• Sexually abused children have a much higher incidence of behavioral problems such as physical aggression, non-compliance and being oppositional.
• Sexually abused children are more likely to engage in risky behavior
• Sexually abused children often display age-inappropriate sexual behavior.
• Sexually abused children tend to perform lower on academic tests and memory assessments.
• Sexually abused children are more likely to drop out of school
• Sexually abused children are three to four times more likely to develop substance abuse problems beginning in childhood or early adolescence
• Sexually abused children are three to five times more likely to engage in criminal behaviors as adolescents. They are also more likely to run away from home, have poor school performance and display behavioral problems while in school.
• Sexually abused girls have a much higher rate of teen pregnancy. Sexually abused boys are also more likely to father a child as a teen.
• Adults who were sexually abused are far more likely to report problems with drugs, alcohol and mental health than adults who were never abused. Outpatient and inpatient treatment is available,
• Sexually abused children are more likely to develop eating disorders as adults.
• Childhood abuse and neglect are associated with physical health problems in adulthood.

It is important to realize that while adult survivors of childhood abuse suffer these negative impacts as a group, many individual survivors do not face these consequences. Childhood abuse does not automatically sentence a person to an impaired life!

• In 2013, 1520 child died as a result of abuse and neglect.
• Approximately 679,000 children were victims of abuse and neglect
• 3.1 million children received preventative services from Child Protective Services Agencies in the US in 2013
• Children under 12 months of age have the highest rate of victimization at 23.1 per 1000 children in the national population of the same age
• Of the abused or neglected children, nearly 80% were neglected, 18% were physically abused, and 9% were sexually abused.
• Nearly 80% of fatal cases of abuse and neglect were caused by one or more of the child’s parents.

The full text of Child Maltreatment 2013 is available online athttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/resource/child-maltreatment-2013

2014 Full Child Advocacy Center Statistics

Of the over 315,000 children served by Children’s Advocacy Centers around the US in 2014:

• 116,940 children were ages 0 to 6 years
• 115,959 children were ages 7 to 12 years
• 81,025 children were ages 13 to 18 years
• 205,438 children reported sexual abuse
• 60,897 children reported physical abuse

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Administration for Children & Families. Child Maltreatment 2013.http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/resource/child-maltreatment-2013

There were approximately 244,000 alleged offenders investigated for child mistreatment in 2014.

• 154,529 were over age 18
• 26,294 were between 13 and 17 years old
• 20,040 were under age 13
• 95,913 were the parent or step-parent of the victim
• 127,358 were related or otherwise known to victim, but not a parent
• 23,696 were a person the victim did not know

National Children’s Alliance 2013 and 2014 national statistics collected from Children’s Advocacy Center members and available on the NCA website:http://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/cac-statistics

Abusers

A perpetrator of abuse is someone who has caused or knowingly allowed mistreatment of a child. If you see signs of being at risk of harming a child in yourself or someone else, it is important to seek help BEFORE a child is harmed.

Some warning signs of a possible child abuser:

• Anger and frustration, feeling like there is nowhere to turn for help.
• Grew up in a home where violence or child abuse occurred
• Very young parent or lacking parenting knowledge or skills
• Feeling emotionally disconnected from one’s children
• Seemingly impossible to meet the daily needs of the child
• Constantly feeling overwhelmed
• Other people expressing concern

If you recognize these signs in yourself, please talk with a child abuse professional about how to get preventative help. Remember, the adult is always in control when it comes to causing harm to a child.

Prevention

Adults can take steps to prevent child abuse at any time. Just by educating yourself about child abuse is one step in preventing it. You are becoming aware of the issue and some of the signs of child abuse. This makes you a more protective adult.

As many as nine out of ten children do no tell anyone that they are being abused, especially in cases of sexual abuse. This makes it very important for adults to recognize the behaviors that signal something may be wrong. If you are uncomfortable with something, say something.. You are the first defense in keeping children safe from abuse.

Family factors and prevention of abuse:

• No child is immune to child abuse or neglect
• Children living with two married parents are at the lowest risk of abuse.
• Children living without either parent i.e. in foster care are ten times more likely to be sexually abused than children living with both biological parents.
• Girls are five times more likely to be victims of sexual abuse than males.
• Children between the ages of 7 and 13 are at the highest risk for sexual abuse.
• Children with physical, mental or learning disabilities are at much greater risk for all types of abuse and neglect than their non-disabled peers.
• Children living with domestic violence are more likely to suffer abuse.
• Children living with an alcoholic or addict are most often neglected and abused.
• Untreated mental illness in a parent or caregiver is a frequent cause of child abuse.
• Teen parents or parents who were abused as children often lack good parenting skills, placing them at risk to abuse their children.
• Parents without a strong support system from family, friends and the community are at high risk of abusing or neglecting their children
• Poverty, unemployment, and social isolation create stresses on the family that increases the risk of child abuse or neglect

Warning Signs of Abuse and Neglect

If child abuse or neglect occurs, intervention is most effective when it happens quickly. Child abuse can be very subtle, and it is easy to miss the warning signs. Remember, though, that just because a warning sign is seen does not mean abuse or neglect has occurred. It is important to look for patterns of behavior and warning signs.

Warning Signs of Emotional Abuse

• Child is very withdrawn, anxious about doing something wrong, fearful
• Child has extremes of behavior (i.e. compliant or demanding, passive or aggressive)
• Child does not seem attached to parent or caretaker
• Child acts too adult (i.e. caretaker of other children) or too infantile for their age
• Sudden changes in behavior or personality, or regression to baby like behavior

Warning Signs of Physical Abuse

• Child often has unexplained cuts, bruises, welts or other injuries
• Child often seems watchful or “on alert,” as if they are waiting for something bad to happen
• Child’s injuries have a pattern such as a hand or a belt
• Child shies away from touch, flinches at sudden movements, or reports they are afraid to go home
• Child wears clothing to cover injuries i.e. long sleeved shirts on hot days to cover bruises.

Warning Signs of Neglect

• Child wears poorly-fitting, dirty clothing or clothes that are not appropriate for weather
• Child’s hygiene is consistently bad i.e. unwashed, dirty/matted hair, body odor
• Child has untreated illnesses or physical injuries
• Child is often left alone or unsupervised or is allowed to play in unsafe environments
• Child is often late to school or misses school

Warning Signs of Sexual Abuse

• Child has trouble or pain when walking or sitting, or infant has blood in diaper
• Child does not want to change clothes in front of others
• Child does not want to participate in physical activities
• Child has knowledge or interest in sexual activities inappropriate to their age
• Child acts in a seductive or sexual manner inappropriate to their age
• Child has a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or is pregnant
• Child runs away from home

What to Do

Helping a child deal with abuse or neglect is difficult but important. It starts with teaching your children how to protect themselves from abuse, learning about touch and about how to talk to trusted adults. Protecting children from abuse also means showing them that you can be safe – you do not live in an environment where abuse is tolerated.

If a child comes to you and discloses abuse, it is normal to feel overwhelmed and confused. However, you can make an enormous difference in the life of that child by taking steps to halt the abuse early. The best thing you can do is to remain calm and provide unconditional support and reassurance.

• Avoid denial in your actions and words.
• Do not show disgust or shock, as the child may be afraid to continue talking.
• Do not interrogate the child. Let the child tell their story in their own words.
• Reassure the child they did nothing wrong and the abuse is not their fault.
• Let the child know that you take what they said seriously.
• Always put safety first. If you feel the safety of the child or yourself is threatened, contact law enforcement or the child abuse hotline immediately.

Most child sexual abuse occurs when children are in isolated activities with an adult, or when older children have unsupervised access to younger children.

• Make sure multiple adults are supervising children whenever possible.
• Monitor children’s use of the Internet, used by many offenders to lure kids into physical contact.
• Talk openly with other parents, school personnel, program administrators and legislators about policies that protect children.
• Drop into day care, babysitters, and school at unexpected times
• Talk with your child after activities with other adults.
• Be mindful of any changes in your child’s mood or behavior
• Talk openly with your children about child sexual abuse, child abuse, and other issues. Make sure they know – by your actions and your words – that you are a safe person to talk with if they have concerns.
• Report any instances of suspected abuse, whether the child is yours or someone else’s.

How to Report

The Child Protective Services (CPS) agency in your state may be called something different, but regardless of the name it is the center of child protection efforts. They are required by law to investigate all reports of abuse and neglect, along with law enforcement, health care providers, mental health agencies and others.

If you have any suspicion that a child is being harmed, it is vital that you make a report to CPS. In every state, people can make reports of suspected child abuse or neglect anonymously. Your name and address will never be revealed to the family.

How to Get Help for Yourself

Breaking the cycle of child abuse

If you are the survivor of child abuse or neglect, having your own children may be challenging. It may trigger strong feelings and memories about your abuse. You CAN learn ways to manage your emotions and break old patterns of abuse.

Remember, you are the most important person in your children’s world. Help and support are available to you.

• Learn age-appropriate child behaviors and have realistic expectations of children.
• Develop strong parenting skills and discipline techniques.
• Take care of yourself by getting rest and using support systems
• Get help from professionals – therapists, parent educators or others
• Learn to recognize and control your emotions

Domestic Violence/Abuse

Anyone can be the victim of domestic violence and abuse. Recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship is the first step to ending it and getting help. No one needs to live in daily fear of the person they love.

Why Does Domestic Violence Occur?

Domestic violence is about control over another person by whatever means necessary. Abuse might involve emotional or financial manipulation and abuse, psychological intimidation, physical threats or physical violence, or even sexual abuse or rape. Domestic abuse is more likely to occur when one partner was raised in an abusive home, or where mental illness or substance abuse is an issue.

Definition

Domestic abuse occurs when one person who lives with another under the same roof tries to dominate and control the other person. It can include physical violence, emotional and psychological abuse, financial abuse and more. The consequences of domestic abuse can be anxiety, depression, feelings of helplessness and isolation, physical injury or death.

Physical Abuse

Most people think of physical abuse when talking about domestic violence. Physical assault or battery, causing injury to another person or the threat to do so are all parts of physical abuse. Sexual abuse and marital rape are also forms of physical domestic violence. Even a push, shove or slap is physical violence and is a crime.

Emotional and Verbal Abuse

The threats and verbal assaults may not have led to physical violence, yet, but these forms of domestic abuse can be just as frightening and harmful as a physical confrontation. Name calling, belittling, blaming and shaming, intimidating, isolation and controlling behaviors are all forms of emotional and verbal abuse.

Financial or Economic Abuse

Because an abuser’s goal is to control, they often use money and economic power as a weapon. Economic or financial abuse includes:

• Tightly controlling the family finances
• Not allowing access to money or credit cards
• Making a person account for every penny spent
• Withholding necessities (food, clothes, medicine, shelter)
• Restricting another adult to an allowance
• Not allowing someone to work or choose their own career
• Causing someone to miss work or interfering with their work
• Stealing money from the other person

There is no particular age, gender or social rank that is more likely to be abused or be an abuser. It is impossible to tell who is an abuser from the outside. Most often, women with children are the targets of abuse because they are in a position of being financially and emotionally dependent on their spouse or partner. Regardless of the kind of abuse you might have suffered or dealt, help is available.

Male Victims

Men experience domestic violence, abuse and sexual assault, but they may not report it for fear of being shamed or not believed. However, support for male victims is just as important as it is for women. All of the information on this page applies equally to men and women. Many local programs and state domestic violence coalitions assist male victims.

Data suggests that up to one in three men may be victims of domestic violence. Men often fear to report incidents because they believe police will think they are the perpetrator and not the victim. Abusive women engage in the same behaviors as do abusive men.

Signs of an Abusive Relationship

Answer the questions below. Count the “yes” answers. The more of them you have, the more likely it is that you are in an abusive relationship.

Do you:

1. Often feel afraid of your partner?
2. Avoid talking about certain things out of fear of angering your partner?
3. Believe you must deserve to be hurt or treated badly?
4. Sometimes wonder if you are crazy?
5. Feel helpless or emotionally numb inside?

Does your partner:

1. Humiliate you or yell at you?
2. Put you down or criticize you?
3. Treat you badly enough that you are embarrassed for your family and friends to see?
4. Put down or ignore your accomplishments and opinions?
5. Blame you when they become abusive?
6. See you as their property or a sex object, rather than as a person?

Does your partner:

1. Have a severe or unpredictable temper?
2. Ever hurt you, or threaten to hurt or kill you?
3. Threaten to hurt or take away your children?
4. Threaten to kill themselves if you leave?
5. Force you to have sex or to do sexual things against your will?
6. Destroy your belongings?
7. Harm pets?

Does your partner:

1. Ever act excessively possessive or jealous?
2. Ever try to control where you go, what you do or who you see?
3. Ever try to keep you from seeing or contacting friends and family?
4. Ever limit your access to the car, a phone or money?
5. Constantly check up on you when you are out?

The most telling sign of an abusive relationship is when you feel like you have to “walk on eggshells” around your partner because you never know what will set off an explosion. If this is the case, chances are good you are in an abusive relationship.

Know the Numbers

• Although both men and women can be abused and be abusers, nearly 95% of reported domestic violence victims are women.
• Over 50% of all women will experience some physical violence in an intimate relationship. For up to 30% of those women, the violence will be ongoing and regular.
• A domestic battery crime occurs approximately every 15 seconds in the U.S.

Abusers

It is important to remember these things about people who commit acts of domestic violence:

• They are engaging in abusive behavior to maintain total control over you.
• They don’t play fair. They will use any means necessary to maintain control.
• Violent, abusive behavior is the abuser’s choice, and not due to loss of control
• If you report the crime, they will do anything possible to get you to drop the charges.
• Abusers are very good at making excuses for their behavior. Their favorite excuse is that somehow the victim “caused” the behavior.
• Abusers can control their behavior.
• Abusers pick and choose who to abuse – usually the people closest to them.
• Abusers choose when and where to abuse – usually when no one else is around
• Abusers can stop their behavior when it benefits them.
• Physical abusers often direct their blows where they will not show.

Lethality Assessments

Too often, victims of domestic violence return to their abuser again and again, believing things will be better. All too often, it is worse. If you are in a violent relationship, ask yourself these questions and think about the risks associated with each behavior. Each yes answer indicates a higher risk that the abuser is likely to increase their violence, possibly to the point of murdering you or others in the home.

Is it worth the risk to return?

1. Has the abuser ever threatened to kill you, your children, your family, or themselves? Threats to kill are one of the strongest risk factors consistently linked to the murder of a partner in domestic violence cases.
2. Has the abuser ever talked about having ideas, fantasies or dreams about killing you or anyone else? This is also a risk factor linked to homicide, and the risk is greater if the abuser is very specific about plans or methods.
3. Has the abuser made more than one threat? How often? Daily? Monthly? What are the threats? An increase in the frequency of threats indicates greater risk.
4. Are weapons available to the abuser, or has the abuser used weapons in the past (guns, knives, baseball bats, etc.)? Access to weapons indicates a strong risk for murder.
5. Has the abuser ever used their hands or an object (rope, etc.) to choke, strangulate or try to suffocate you? This is another high-risk factor for murder.
6. Has the abuser had a history of arson or making threats of arson/fire setting?
7. Does the abuser make statements of ownership of you, for example, “If I can’t have you, no one else can,” or “Death before divorce?” When a victim leaves and abusive relationship, this can be a very dangerous time, especially when the abuser has made statements like these.
8. Has there been violence when you have tried to leave the relationship before? A victim leaving a relationship indicates the abuser has lost control over them.
9. Does the abuser depend heavily on you, put you above others or try to isolate you from the rest of the community?
10. Has the abuser ever held you against your will, taken you hostage or stalked you?
11. Is the abuser depressed or feeling hopeless? This is a serious risk factor for murder-suicide in domestic violence cases.
12. Has the abuser ever physically abused you during pregnancy? Frequently, domestic violence escalates from verbal to physical during pregnancy.
13. Does the abuser frequently use alcohol or other drugs? Impaired judgment can increase the risk of serious physical assault or murder.

What to Do

If you see any warning signs of abuse in a friend, family member, or co-worker, take them very seriously.

People who are being emotionally or verbally abused might:

• Appear afraid or anxious to please their partner
• Go along with everything their partner says and does
• Check in often with their partner to report where they are and what they’re doing
• Receive frequent, harassing phone calls from their partner
• Talk about their partner’s temper, jealousy, or possessiveness

People who are being physically abused may:

• Have frequent injuries, with the excuse of “accidents.”
• Frequently miss work, school, or social occasions, without explanation
• Dress in clothing designed to hide bruises or scars (e.g. wearing long sleeves in the summer or sunglasses indoors)

People who are being isolated by their abuser may:

• Be restricted from seeing family and friends
• Rarely go out in public without their partner
• Have limited access to money, credit cards, or the car

People who are being psychologically abused may:

• Have very low self-esteem, even if they used to be confident
• Show major personality changes (e.g. an outgoing person becomes withdrawn)
• Be depressed, anxious, or suicidal

Speak up if you suspect domestic violence or abuse. You may be the one person who is a lifeline to the domestic violence victim. Talk to them privately to let them know you are concerned. Point out the specific things that make you worry. Tell them you are there for them if they need to talk. Reassure them that you will help in whatever way you can.

How to Help Yourself

People who have never been in abusive relationships do not understand the difficulties of leaving. Ending any relationship is hard, and most victims of abuse have been isolated from family and friends, emotionally beaten, financially drained and physically threatened or harmed.

If you are the victim who is trying to decide whether to leave or stay, your emotions are probably all over the place. Fear, uncertainty, and indecision are common. You might blame yourself, feel weak or embarrassed, or want to stay some of the times. Do not let yourself get trapped by guilt or blame. Your safety is most important.

If You Are Abused, Remember:

• The abuse is not your fault
• You did not cause the abuse
• You deserve respect
• You deserve safety and happiness
• Your children deserve safety and happiness
• You are not alone. Help is available.

Signs That Your Abuser is NOT Changing:

• They minimize the abuse or deny how serious it is
• They continue to blame others for their behavior.
• They claim you’re the one who is abusive.
• They pressure you to go to couple’s counseling.
• They tell you that you owe them another chance.
• You have to push them to stay in treatment.
• They say they can’t change unless you stay and support them
• They try to get sympathy from you, your children, or your family and friends.
• They expect something from you in exchange for getting help.
• They pressure you to make decisions about the relationship.

Prepare for emergencies

• Know your abuser’s red flags. Be alert for clues that your abuser is getting upset and may explode in anger or violence. Come up with several believable reasons you can use to leave the house (both during the day and at night) if you feel trouble brewing.
• Identify safe areas in the house. Know where to go when your abuser attacks or an argument starts. Avoid small, enclosed spaces without exits like closets or bathrooms, or rooms with weapons like the kitchen. Go to a room with a phone and an outside door or window if possible
• Establish a code word, phrase, or signal you can use to let your children, friends, neighbors, or co-workers know when you are in danger. When you use the code, they should call the police.

Make an Escape Plan

• Be ready to leave the house at a moment’s notice. Keep the car fueled and facing the driveway exit. Keep the driver’s door unlocked. Hide a spare car key where you can get it quickly. Stash emergency cash, clothing, and important phone numbers and documents in a safe place, such as at a friend’s house.
• Practice how to escape safely and quickly. Rehearse your escape plan so you know what to do when you are under attack. If you have children, have them practice the escape plan also.
• Memorize a list of emergency contact phone numbers. Ask several trusted people if you can contact them if you need a ride, a place to stay, or help contacting the police. Memorize their phone numbers, as well as the numbers to the local domestic violence shelter and the domestic abuse hotline.

If You Stay

If you decide to stay with your abusive partner for the time being, do your best to protect your children and yourself.

• Make contact with the domestic violence/sexual assault program in your area. They provide a range of support programs and information whether you stay in the relationship or decide to leave.
• Build as strong a support system as your partner allows. Stay involved with people and activities outside the home and encourage your children to do so, as well.
• Be kind to yourself. Work on developing a positive way of looking at yourself and talking to yourself. Use affirmations to counter the negative comments you get from the abuser. Give yourself time to do things you enjoy.
• You may be afraid to leave or ask for help because you are afraid of what will happen if your abuser discovers your activities. This is a natural and legitimate concern. Take precautions to stay safe and keep your activities secret from your abuser. While you are seeking help for domestic abuse and violence, make sure to cover your tracks on the phone and computer.

Domestic Violence Shelters

A domestic violence shelter may be a building or apartment complex where victims of abuse can hide from their abusers. The address of such shelters is confidential as part of keeping abusers from finding their victims.

Shelters usually have space for parents as well as children. They provide a safe place to live while helping you find a permanent place to live and the things you need to start a new life. The shelter will be able to refer you to other services in your community, including:

• Legal help
• Counseling
• Support groups
• Services for your children
• Employment programs
• Health-related services
• Educational opportunities
• Financial assistance

If you go to a shelter, you do not have to give any identifying information about yourself. If you choose to give your name, this information is kept confidential. Many shelters allow residents to use a fake name to help keep abusers from locating them.

Protecting Y
ourself After You’ve Left

You need to stay safe after you’ve left an abusive relationship. You may need to move so your abuser cannot find you, and your children may have to change schools. If you stay in the same area, you should change your routine. For instance, take a different route to work and avoid places where your abuser might try to find you. Find new places to shop or run errands, and keep a cell phone with you at all times.

• Always get an unlisted phone number and have caller ID on all phone numbers.
• Use a P.O. Box rather than your home address for correspondence
• Cancel all bank and credit cards you shared with your abuser. Open a new bank account at a different bank.
• Have a safety plan for your new home, including escape routes and memorized emergency contact numbers.
• Get legal advice, and go to court for a protection order against your abuser. Keep a copy with you at all times. Give a copy to your child’s school along with a photo of your abuser.
• Stay in touch with the domestic violence support organization, and continue with any services such as therapy.

Reporting and Prosecuting Domestic Violence

Restraining Orders

You are entitled to get a protective order or restraining order against your abuser. Police can only enforce the order if someone violates it AND if someone reports the violation. This means you must be endangered, and you must call the police for them to help you.

You need to research how protection orders are enforced. Will the abuser be given a ticket or taken to jail? If police only talk with the abuser and release them, this may give the abuser a reason to try and retaliate against you. Do not let a restraining order make you feel completely secure.

Child Abuse Reporting Hotlines (all states)

1-888-PREVENT (1-888-773-8368) – Stop It Now

1-800-656-HOPE – Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)

Each State designates specific agencies to receive and investigate reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. Typically, this responsibility is carried out by child protective services (CPS) within a Department of Social Services, Department of Human Resources, or Division of Family and Children Services. In some States, police departments may also receive reports of child abuse or neglect.

In most cases, the toll-free numbers listed below are only accessible from within the State listed. If calling from out-of-State, use the local (toll) number listed. Also listed below are links to State websites, which can provide additional information.

Alabama

Local (toll): (334) 242-9500

Alaska

Toll-Free: (800) 478-4444

Arizona

Toll-Free: (888) SOS-CHILD (888-767-2445)

Arkansas

Toll-Free: (800) 482-5964

Website: http://humanservices.arkansas.gov/dcfs/Pages/ChildProtectiveServices.aspx

California

Website: http://www.childsworld.ca.gov/res/pdf/CPSEmergNumbers.pdf

Colorado

Local (toll): (303) 866-5932

Website: http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/CDHS-Main/CBON/1251633944381

Connecticut

TDD: (800) 624-5518

Toll-Free: (800) 842-2288

Website: http://www.ct.gov/dcf/cwp/view.asp?a=2556&q=314396

Delaware

Toll-Free: (800) 292-9582

Website: http://www.state.de.us/kids/

District of Columbia

Local (toll): (202) 671-SAFE (202-671-7233)

Website: http://cfsa.dc.gov/cfsa/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=520663&cfsaNav=|31319|

Florida

Toll-Free: (800) 96-ABUSE (800-962-2873)

Website: http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/abuse/

Georgia

Website: http://dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/how-report-child-abuse

Hawaii

Local (toll): (808) 832-5300

Website: http://www.hawaii.gov/dhs/protection/social_services/child_welfare/

Idaho

Toll-Free: (800) 926-2588

Illinois

Toll-Free: (800) 252-2873

Local (toll): (217) 524-2606

Website: http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/child/index.shtml

Indiana

Toll-Free: (800) 800-5556

Website: http://www.in.gov/dcs/2971.htm

Iowa

Toll-Free: (800) 362-2178

Website:http://www.dhs.state.ia.us/Consumers/Safety_and_Protection/Abuse_Reporting/ChildAbuse.html

Kansas

Toll-Free: (800) 922-5330

Website: http://www.dcf.ks.gov/Pages/Report-Abuse-or-Neglect.aspx

Kentucky

Toll-Free: (800) 752-6200

Louisiana

Toll-Free: 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437)

Maine

TTY: (800) 963-9490

Toll-Free: (800) 452-1999

Website: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/hotlines.html

Maryland

Website: http://www.dhr.state.md.us/blog/?page_id=4035

Massachusetts

Toll-Free: (800) 792-5200

Website: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/consumer/family-services/child-abuse-neglect/

Michigan

Toll-Free: (855) 444-3911

Minnesota

Website: http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/idcplg?IdcService=GET_DYNAMIC_CONVERSION&RevisionSelectionMethod=LatestReleased&Redirected=true&dDocName=id_000152#P28_2423

Mississippi

Toll-Free: (800) 222-8000

Local (toll): (601) 359-4991

Website: http://www.mdhs.state.ms.us/fcs_prot.html

Missouri

Toll-Free: (800) 392-3738

Local (toll): (573) 751-3448

Montana

Toll-Free: (866) 820-5437

Nebraska

Toll-Free: (800) 652-1999

Website: http://dhhs.ne.gov/children_family_services/Pages/jus_jusindex.aspx

Nevada

Toll-Free: (800) 992-5757

Local (toll): (775) 684-4400

New Hampshire

Toll-Free: (800) 894-5533

Local (toll): (603) 271-6556

Website: http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcyf/cps/index.htm

New Jersey

TDD: (800) 835-5510

TTY: (800) 835-5510

Toll-Free: (877) 652-2873

Website: http://www.nj.gov/dcf/reporting/how/index.html

New Mexico

Toll-Free: (800) 797-3260

Local (toll): (505) 841-6100

Website: http://www.cyfd.org/node/26

New York

TDD: (800) 369-2437

Toll-Free: (800) 342-3720

Local (toll): (518) 474-8740

Website: http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/cps/

North Carolina

Website: http://www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dss/cps/index.htm

North Dakota

Website: http://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/childfamily/cps/#reporting

Ohio

Website: http://jfs.ohio.gov/factsheets/CPS_factSheet.pdf

Contact the county Public Children Services Agency using the list above

Oklahoma

Toll-Free: (800) 522-3511

Website: http://www.okdhs.org/programsandservices/cps/default.htm

Oregon

Website: http://www.oregon.gov/dhs/children/pages/abuse/cps/cw_branches.aspx

Pennsylvania

Toll-Free: (800) 932-0313

Website: http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/helpfultelephonenumbers/index.htm

Puerto Rico

Toll-Free: (800) 981-8333

Local (toll): (787) 749-1333

Rhode Island

Toll-Free: (800) RI-CHILD (800-742-4453)

Website: http://www.dcyf.ri.gov/child_welfare/index.php

South Carolina

Local (toll): (803) 898-7318

Website: http://www.state.sc.us/dss/cps/index.html

South Dakota

Local (toll): (605) 773-3227

Website: http://dss.sd.gov/cps/

Tennessee

Toll-Free: (877) 237-0004

Website: https://reportabuse.state.tn.us/

Texas

Toll-Free: (800) 252-5400

Local (toll): (512) 834-3784

Website: https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Contact_Us/report_abuse.asp

Utah

Toll-Free: (800) 678-9399

Website: http://www.hsdcfs.utah.gov

Vermont

After hours: (800) 649-5285

Website: http://dcf.vermont.gov/

Virginia

Toll-Free: (800) 552-7096

Local (toll): (804) 786-8536

Website: http://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/cps/index2.cgi

Washington

TTY: (800) 624-6186

Toll-Free: (866) END-HARM (866-363-4276)

After hours: (800) 562-5624

Website: http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/ca/safety/abuseReport.asp?2

West Virginia

Toll-Free: (800) 352-6513

Website: http://www.wvdhhr.org/bcf/children_adult/cps/report.asp

Wisconsin Reports of alleged child abuse or neglect should be made to the county where the child or the child’s family resides

Website: http://dcf.wisconsin.gov/children/cps/cpswimap.HTM

Wyoming

Website: https://docs.google.com/a/wyo.gov/document/d/1SRMtkiTaoGVjc4F40xPh1yRmvpc2Z2edcavWpgE7364/edit?pli=1#bookmark=id.is9krnxn6dyz

Children’s Defense Fund 

202-628-8787

www.childrensdefense.org

Child Welfare League of America 

202-638-2952

www.cwla.org

National Council on Juvenile and Family Court Judges 

Child Protection and Custody/Resource Center on Domestic Violence

1-800-527-3233

www.ncjfcj.org

Center for Judicial Excellence 

info@centerforjudicialexcellence.org

www.centerforjudicialexcellence.org

Domestic Violence Hotlines (all states)

In the US: call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE).

Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence

P. O. Box 4762

Montgomery, AL 36101

Hotline: 1 (800) 650-6522

Office: (334) 832-4842 Fax: (334) 832-4803

Website: www.acadv.org

Email: info@acadv.org

Alaska Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

130 Seward Street, Suite 214

Juneau, AK 99801

Office: (907) 586-3650

Website: www.andvsa.org

Email: andvsa@andvsa.org

Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence

2800 N. Central Ave., Suite 1570

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Hotline: 1 (800) 782-6400

Office: (602) 279-2900 Fax: (602) 279-2980

Website: www.azcadv.org

Email: info@azcadv.org

Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1401 W. Capitol Avenue, Suite 170

Little Rock, AR 72201

Hotline: 1 (800) 269-4668

Office: (501) 907-5612 Fax: (501) 907-5618

Website: www.domesticpeace.com

California Partnership to End Domestic Violence

P. O. Box 1798

Sacramento, CA 95812

Hotline: 1 (800) 524-4765

Office: (916) 444-7163 Fax: (916) 444-7165

Website: www.cpedv.org

Email: info@cpedv.org

Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1120 Lincoln St, #900

Denver, CO 80203

Office: (303) 831-9632

Website: www.ccadv.org

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence

912 Silas Deane Highway, Lower Level

Wethersfield, CT 06109

Hotline: (888) 774-2900

Office: (860) 282-7899 Fax: (860) 282-7892

Website: www.ctcadv.org

Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence

100 W. 10th Street, Suite 903

Wilmington, DE 19801

Northern Delaware: (302) 762-6110

Southern Delaware: (302) 422-8058 Bilingual: (302) 745-9874

Office: (302) 658-2958

Website: www.dcadv.org

DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence

5 Thomas Circle, NW

Washington, DC 20005

Office: (202) 299-1181 Fax: (202) 299-1193

Website: www.dccadv.org

Email: info@dccadv.org

Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence

425 Office Plaza

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Hotline: (800) 500-1119

TDD: (850) 621-4202

Office: (850) 425-2749 Fax: (850) 425-3091

Website: www.fcadv.org

Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence

114 New Street, Suite B

Decatur, GA 30030

Hotline: 1 (800) 334-2836

Office: (404) 209-0280 Fax: (404) 766-3800

Website: www.gcadv.org

Guam Coalition Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence

P.O. Box 1093

Hagatna, GU 96932

Office: (671) 479-2277 Fax: (671) 479-7233

Website: www.guamcoalition.org

Email: info@guamcoalition.org

Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

810 Richards Street, Suite 960

Honolulu, HI 96813

Office: (808) 832-9316 Fax: (808) 841-6028

Website: www.hscadv.org

Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence

300 E. Mallard Drive, Suite 130

Boise, ID 83706

Office: (208) 384-0419

Website: www.idvsa.org

Email: info@engagingvoices.org

Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Hotline: (877) 863-6338

Office: (217) 789-2830

Website: www.ilcadv.org

Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1915 W. 18th Street, Suite B

Indianapolis, IN 46202

Hotline: 1 (800) 332-7385

Office: (317) 917-3685 Fax: (317) 917-3695

Website: www.icadvinc.org

Iowa Coalition against Domestic Violence

3030 Merle Hay Road

Des Moines, IA 50310

Hotline: 1 (800) 942-0333

Office: (515) 244-8028 Fax: (515) 244-7417

Website: www.icadv.org

Email: icadv@icadv.org

Kansas Coalition against Sexual & Domestic Violence

634 SW Harrison Street

Topeka, KS 66603

Hotline: 1 (888) 363-2287

Office: (785) 232-9784 Fax: (785) 266-1874

Website: www.kcsdv.org

Kentucky Domestic Violence Association

111 Darby Shire Circle

Frankfort, KY 40601

Office: (502) 209-5382 Fax: (502) 226-5382

Website: www.kdva.org

Email: info@kdva.org

Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence

P.O. Box 77308

Baton Rouge, LA 70879

Hotline: 1 (888) 411-1333

Office: (225) 752-1296

Website: www.lcadv.org

Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence

One Weston Court, Box#2

Augusta, ME 04330

Hotline: 1 (866) 834-4357

Office: (207) 430-8334 Fax: (207) 430-8348

Website: www.mcedv.org

Email: info@mcedv.org

Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence

4601 Presidents Dr., Ste. 370

Lanham, MD 20706

Hotline: 1 (800) 634-3577

Office: (301) 429-3601 Fax: (301) 429-3605

Website: www.mnadv.org

Email: info@mnadv.org

Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence/Jane Doe, Inc.

14 Beacon Street, Suite 507

Boston, MA 02108

Hotline: 1 (877) 785-2020

TTY/TTD: 1 (877) 521-2601

Office: (617) 248-0922 Fax: (617) 248-0902

Website: www.janedoe.org

Email: info@janedoe.org

Michigan Coalition To End Domestic & Sexual Violence

3893 Okemos Road, Suite B2

Okemos, MI 48864

Office: (517) 347-7000 Fax: (517) 347-1377

TTY: (517) 381-8470

Website: www.mcedsv.org

Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women

60 Plato Blvd. E, Suite 130

Saint Paul, MN 55107

Hotline: 1 (866) 223-1111

Office: (651) 646-6177 Fax: (651) 646-1527

Website: www.mcbw.org

Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence

P.O. Box 4703

Jackson, MS 39296

Hotline: 1 (800) 898-3234

Office: (601) 981-9196 Fax: (601) 981-2501

Website: www.mcadv.org

Email: support@mcadv.org

Missouri Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

217 Oscar Dr., Suite A

Jefferson City, MO 65101

Office: (573) 634-4161

Website: www.mocadsv.org

Montana Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

32 S Ewing St

Helena, MT 59601

Office: (406) 443-7794

Website: www.mcadsv.com

Email: mtcoalition@mcadsv.com

Nebraska Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Coalition

245 South 84th St, Suite 200

Lincoln, NE 68510

Office: (402) 476-6256 Fax: (402) 476-6806

Spanish Hotline: (877) 215-0167

Website: www.ndvsac.org

Nevada Network Against Domestic Violence

250 South Rock Bldvd., Suite 116

Reno, NV 89502

(775) 828-1115 Fax: (775) 828-9911

Website: www.nnadv.org

New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

P.O. Box 353

Concord, NH 03302

Hotline: 1 (866) 644-3574

Office: (603) 224-8893 Fax: (603) 228-6096

Website: www.nhcadsv.org

New Jersey Coalition for Battered Women

1670 Whitehorse Hamilton Square

Trenton, NJ 08690

Hotline: 1 (800) 572-7233 TTY: (800) 787-3224

Office: (609) 584-8107 Fax: (609) 584-9750

Website: www.njcbw.org

New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1210 Luisa Street, Suite 7

Santa Fe, NM 87505

Office: (505) 246-9240 Fax: (505) 246-9240

Website: www.nmcadv.org

Email: info@nmcadv.org

New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

119 Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor

Albany, NY 12210

Hotline NYS: 1 (800) 942-6906

Hotline NYC: 1 (800) 621-4673

Office: (518) 482-5465 Fax: (518) 482-3807

Website: www.nyscadv.org

North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence

3710 University Drive, Suite 140

Durham, NC 27707

Office: (919) 956-9124 Fax: (919) 682-1449

Website: www.nccadv.org

North Dakota Council on Abused Women’s Services

525 N. 4th St.

Bismark, ND 58501

Office: (701) 255-6240 Fax: (701) 255-1904

Website: www.ndcaws.org

Ohio Domestic Violence Network

Hotline: (800) 934-9840

Website: www.odvn.org

Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

3815 N. Santa Fe Ave., Suite 124

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

Hotline: 1 (800) 522-7233

Office: (405) 524-0700 TTY: (405) 512-5577

Website: www.ocadvsa.org

Email: info@ocadvsa.org

Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

1737 NE Alberta Street, Suite 205

Portland, OR 97211

Hotline: 1 (888) 235-5333

Office: (503) 230-1951 Fax: (503) 230-1973

Website: www.ocadsv.com

Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence

3605 Vartan Way, Suite 101

Harrisburg PA 17110

Office (717) 545-6400 TTY (800) 553-2508

Website: www.pcadv.org

Coordinadora Paz para la Mujer

Apartado 193008

San Juan, Puerto Rico 00919-3008

Office: (787) 281-7579

Website: ww.pazparalamujer.org

Email: pplmsmtp@ayustar.net

Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence

422 Post Road, Suite 201

Warwick, RI 02888

Hotline: 1 (800) 494-8100

Office: (401) 467-9940 Fax: (401) 467-9943

Website: www.ricadv.org

Email: ricadv@ricadv.org

South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

P.O. Box 7776

Columbia, SC 29202

Office: (803) 256-2900

Website: www.sccadvasa.org

South Dakota Coalition Ending Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

P.O. Box 141

Pierre, SD 57501

Office: (605) 945-0869

Website: www.sdcedsv.org

Tennessee Coalition To End Domestic & Sexual Violence

2 International Plaza Dr. Suite 425

Nashville, TN 37217

Hotline: 1 (800) 356-6767

Office: (615) 386-9406

Website: tncoalition.org

Texas Council on Family Violence

P.O. Box 163865

Austin, TX 78716

Office: (512) 794-1133 Fax: (512) 685.6397

Website: www.tcfv.org

Women’s Coalition of St. Croix

P.O. Box 222734

Christiansted, VI 00822-2734

Hotline: (340) 773-9272

Fax: (340) 773-9062

Website: www.wcstx.com

Email: info@wcstx.org

Utah Domestic Violence Coalition

205 North 400 West,

Salt Lake City, UT 84103

Hotline: 1 (800) 897-5465

Office: (801) 521-5544

Website: www.udvc.org

Vermont Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

P.O. Box 405

Montpelier, VT 05601

Hotline: 1 (800) 228-7395

Office: (802) 223-1302 Fax: (802) 223-6943

Website: www.vtnetwork.org

Email: vtnetwork@vtnetwork.org

Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance

5008 Monument Avenue, Suite A

Richmond, VA 23230

Office: (804) 377-0335

Website: www.vsdvalliance.org

Email: info@vsdvalliance.org

Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

711 Capitol Way, Suite 702

Olympia, WA 98501

Hotline: 1 (800) 562-6025

Office: (360) 586-1022 Fax: (360) 586-1024

Website: www.wscadv2.org

Email: wscadv@wscadv.org

West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence

5004 Elk River Road, South

Elkview, WV 25071

Office: (304) 965-3552 Fax: (304) 965-3572

Website: www.wvcadv.org

Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence

1245 E. Washington Ave, Suite 150

Madison, WI 53703

Office: (608) 255-0539 Fax: (608) 255-3560

Website: endabusewi.org

Email: wcadv@wcadv.org

Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

P.O. Box 236

710 Garfield Street, Suite 218

Laramie, WY 82073

Office: (307) 755-5481 Fax: (307) 755-5482

Website: www.wyomingdvsa.org

Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men and Women

Box 252

Harmony ME, 04942

Hotline: 888-7HELPLINE

Web: http://www.dahmw.org

Domesticshelters.org 

Free, online, searchable database of domestic violence shelter programs nationally

www.domesticshelters.org

The National Domestic Violence Hotline 

1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)

www.ndvh.org

National Dating Abuse Helpline 

1-866-331-9474

www.loveisrespect.org

Americans Overseas Domestic Violence Crisis Center 

International Toll-Free (24/7)

1-866-USWOMEN (879-6636)

www.866uswomen.org

National Child Abuse Hotline/Childhelp 

1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

www.childhelp.org

National Sexual Assault Hotline 

1-800-656-4673 (HOPE)

www.rainn.org

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 

1-800-273-8255 (TALK)

www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

National Center for Victims of Crime 

1-202-467-8700

www.victimsofcrime.org

National Human Trafficking Resource Center/Polaris Project 

Call: 1-888-373-7888 | Text: HELP to BeFree (233733)

www.polarisproject.org

National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights 

1-510-465-1984

www.nnirr.org

National Coalition for the Homeless 

1-202-737-6444

www.nationalhomeless.org

Teens

Love is respect 

Hotline: 1-866-331-9474

www.loveisrespect.org

Break the Cycle 

202-824-0707

www.breakthecycle.org

Differently Abled

Domestic Violence Initiative

(303) 839-5510/ (877) 839-5510

www.dviforwomen.org

Deaf Abused Women’s Network (DAWN) 

Email: Hotline@deafdawn.org

VP: 202-559-5366

www.deafdawn.org

Women of Color

Women of Color Network 

1-800-537-2238

www.wocninc.org

INCITE! Women of Color Against Violence 

incite.natl@gmail.com

www.incite-national.org

Latina/Latino

Alianza 

1-505-753-3334

www.dvalianza.org

Casa de Esperanza 

Linea de crisis 24-horas/24-hour crisis line

1-651-772-1611

www.casadeesperanza.org

Immigrant

The National Immigrant Women’s Advocacy Project

(202) 274-4457

http://www.niwap.org/

Indigenous Women

National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center 

855-649-7299

www.niwrc.org

Indigenous Women’s Network 

1-512-258-3880

www.indigenouswomen.org

Asian/Pacific Islander

Asian and Pacific Islander Institute on Domestic Violence 

1-415-954-9988

www.apiidv.org

Committee Against Anti-Asian Violence (CAAAV) 

1-212- 473-6485

www.caaav.org

Manavi 

1-732-435-1414

www.manavi.org

African-American

Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community 

1-877-643-8222

www.dvinstitute.org

The Black Church and Domestic Violence Institute 

1-770-909-0715

www.bcdvi.org

Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Gay, Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming

The Audre Lorde Project 

1-178-596-0342

www.alp.org

LAMBDA GLBT Community Services 

1-206-350-4283

http://www.qrd.org/qrd/www/orgs/avproject/main.htm

National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs 

1-212-714-1184

www.ncavp.org

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force 

1-202-393-5177

www.ngltf.org

Abuse in Later Life

National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life 

1-608-255-0539

www.ncall.us

National Center for Elder Abuse 

1-855-500-3537

http://www.ncea.aoa.gov/

Men

National Organization for Men Against Sexism (NOMAS) 

1-720-466-3882

www.nomas.org

A Call to Men 

1-917-922-6738

www.acalltomen.org

Men Can Stop Rape 

1-202-265-6530

www.mencanstoprape.org

Men Stopping Violence

1-866-717-9317

www.menstoppingviolence.org

Legal

American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence 

1-202-662-1000

www.abanet.org/domviol

Battered Women’s Justice Project 

1-800-903-0111

www.bwjp.org

Legal Momentum 

1-212-925-6635

www.legalmomentum.org

Womenslaw.org 

www.womenslaw.org

National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women 

1-800-903-0111 x 3

www.ncdbw.org

Resources on the Web (Links)

Safe Horizon http://www.safehorizon.org/index.php

Futures Without Violence http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/

Women’s Law http://www.womenslaw.org/index.php

Kids Matter Inc. http://www.kidsmatterinc.org/

The Red Flag Campaignhttp://www.theredflagcampaign.org/

Crisis Text Line http://www.crisistextline.org/

Darkness to Light http://www.d2l.org/site/

National Children’s Alliance http://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/

Truth Alliance Foundation http://truthalliancefoundation.org/

National Center for Education Statistics http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=66

Administration for Children and Familieshttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/research/project/national-survey-of-child-and-adolescent-well-being-nscaw

Child Welfare.gov https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/statistics/can/?hasBeenRedirected=1

Drug Abuse.gov http://archives.drugabuse.gov/NIDA_Notes/NNVol13N2/exploring.html

Privacy Rights http://www.privacyrights.org/

Leaving Abuse http://leavingabuse.com/

Child Help https://www.childhelp.org/child-abuse/

Helpguide Articles – Child Abuse http://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect.htm

Help Guide Articles – Domestic Violencehttp://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/domestic-violence-and-abuse.htm

Mayo Clinic – Domestic Violence Against Menhttp://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/domestic-violence-against-men/art-20045149

Mayo Clinic – Child Abuse Risk Factors http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/basics/risk-factors/con-20033789

Healthy Children https://www.healthychildren.org/

US Department of Justice http://www.ojjdp.gov/publications/PubResults.asp?sei=94&PreviousPage=PubResults&strSortby=date&p=

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Violence Preventionhttp://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childmaltreatment/

CDC Costs of Child Maltreatment http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childmaltreatment/economiccost.html

http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/acestudy/index.html

http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/childmaltreatment/abusive-head-trauma.html

CDC Intimate Partner Violencehttp://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/index.html

CDC Violence Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/nisvs/index.html

CDC Costs of Intimate Partner Violencehttp://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pub/ipv_cost.html

Prevention Institute http://preventioninstitute.org/

Women Thrive – Violence Against Women http://womenthrive.org/issues/violence-against-women?gclid=CjwKEAjw8NaxBRDhiafR-uvkpywSJAAxcl6fiGfHac_TbrViZVWSnRD5ktr5o3Xsoqf9l0XSiWmnexoCEoLw_wcB

World Health Organization http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs239/en/

Prevent Child Abuse http://www.preventchildabuse.org/

American Academy of Pediatrics https://www2.aap.org/sections/childabuseneglect/

CASA for Childrenhttp://www.casaforchildren.org/site/c.mtJSJ7MPIsE/b.5301295/k.BE9A/Home.htm

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatryhttp://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Child-Abuse-The-Hidden-Bruises-005.aspx

National Council of Child and Family Violence http://www.nccafv.org/child.htm

http://www.nccafv.org/child_abuse_reporting_numbers_co.htm

National Data Archive on Child Abuse and Neglect http://www.ndacan.cornell.edu/

The Child Abuse Prevention Center http://www.thecapcenter.org/

US Bureau of Justice Statistics http://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/pdf/saycrle.pd

Child Helpline International http://ChiWorld.org A global portal for children with a list of crisis lines and web resources around the world.

National Children’s Alliance http://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/cac-statistics

National Center for Victims of Crime www.ncvc.org

National Sex Offender Public Registry www.nsopw.gov coordinated by the Department of Justice

State Sex Offender Registry Websites: The Investigative Programs Crimes Against Children unit of the FBI provides updated links to the sex offender registries of all 50 states.http://www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/cac/states.htm

Sexual Offenders.com www.sexualoffenders.com This site allows citizens to share information they have about criminal sex offenders, exchange resource links, and post comments in a blog style community.

Family Watchdog www.familywatchdog.us This site allows visitors to enter an address into a field and a map of nearby registered sex offenders will be displayed.

Administration of Children & Families within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains the Child Welfare Information Gateway https://www.childwelfare.gov/which includes information on mandatory reporting along with specific state laws

The Cybertipline www.cybertipline.com or 1.800.843.5678 is an online and phone service which accepts leads regarding Internet criminal activity which are forwarded to law enforcement for review. Operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other state and law enforcement agencies

For reporting child pornography outside of the U.S., INHOPE: International Association of Internet Hotlines http://www.inhope.org/gns/home.aspx includes an international directory of resources for reporting concerning online content

To read the specific mandatory reporting statute for your state, consult the Child Welfare Information Gateway searchable database of statutes.http://www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/state/index.cfm?event=stateStatutes.showSearchForm

Checklist of warning signs and red flags that you’re in an abusive relationship. (YWCA)http://www.ywca.org/atf/cf/%7BC783A7F4-5C12-4A12-ACCF-0C665D3DA10C%7D/Red%20Flags%20for%20Abusive%20Relationships%201.pdf

Emotional Abuse http://eqi.org/eabuse1.htm In-depth discussion of emotional abuse, including types of emotional abuse and signs of abusive, authority-based relationships. (EQI.org)

Breaking the Silence Handbook http://dhhs.ne.gov/children_family_services/Documents/2003silence.pdf Guide to domestic violence including spotting the signs and where to turn for help. (Nebraska Health and Human Services)

National Network to End Domestic Violence http://nnedv.org/resources/coalitions.htmlNNEDV represents the 56 U.S. state and territorial coalitions against domestic violence.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline http://www.thehotline.org/

The Problem http://www.ncadv.org/need-support/what-is-domestic-violence Describes the problem of battering and signs of domestic violence. (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

Intimate Partner Abuse Against Men http://publications.gc.ca/collections/Collection/H72-21-190-2004E.pdf Learn about domestic violence against men, including homosexual partner abuse, sexual abuse of boys and male teenagers, and abuse by wives or partners. (National Clearinghouse on Family Violence, Canada)

Dating Violence http://acadv.org/warning-signs/dating-violence/ Guide to teen dating violence, including early warning signs that your boyfriend or girlfriend may become abusive. (The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

Teens: Love Doesn’t Have To Hurt http://www.apa.org/pi/families/resources/love-teens.pdf A teen-friendly guide to what abuse looks like in dating relationships and how to do something about it. (American Psychological Association)

Domestic Violence in Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Relationships http://www.lambda.org/DV_background.htm Learn about the unique problems victims of same-sex abuse face, and how to get help. (LAMBDA)

Information for Immigrants http://www.womenslaw.org/laws_state_type.php?id=10270&state_code=US Domestic violence resources for immigrant women. Also available en Español. (Women’s Law Initiative)

National Domestic Violence Hotline http://www.ndvh.org 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) – A crisis intervention and referral phone line for domestic violence. (Texas Council on Family Violence)

State Coalition List http://www.ncadv.org/learn/state-coalitions Directory of state offices that can help you find local support, shelter, and free or low-cost legal services. Includes all U.S. states, as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

The Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men & Women http://dahmw.org/ Specializing in providing support to male victims of abuse. (DAHMV)

International Directory of Domestic Violence Agencies http://www.hotpeachpages.net/Worldwide list of helplines and crisis centers. (HotPeachPages)

Help for Victims, Family and Friends http://www.opdv.ny.gov/help/helpfor.html Where to find help if you or someone you know is being abused. (NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence)

Male Survivor http://www.malesurvivor.org provides critical resources to male survivors of sexual trauma and all their partners in recovery by building communities of Hope, Healing, & Support.

Stop Abuse for Everyone (SAFE)

Tualatin OR, 97062

Web: http://www.safe4all.org/

Email: safe@safe4all.org

Stop Abuse For Everyone (SAFE) is a human rights organization that provides services, publications, and training to serve those who typically fall between the cracks of domestic violence services. These groups include straight men, gays and lesbians, teens, the elderly, and immigrants.

Tour a Domestic Violence Shelter http://www.safehorizon.org/page/tour-a-domestic-violence-shelter-138.html Find out what you can expect at a typical refuge or shelter and hear personal experiences of what life there is like. (Safe Horizon)

Safety Planning http://www.womenslaw.org/safety.htm Guidelines for how to safely leave an abusive relationship, what to do if you’ve filed a restraining order, and what to do once you’ve left the relationship. (Women’s Law Initiative)

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV http://www.ncadv.org/) is the voice of victims and survivors. We are the catalyst for changing society to have zero tolerance for domestic violence. We do this by effecting public policy, increasing understanding of the impact of domestic violence, and providing programs and education that drive that change.

Department of Health and Human Services: Administration for Children & Families. Child Maltreatment 2013. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/resource/child-maltreatment-2013

National Children’s Alliance 2013 and 2014 national statistics collected from Children’s Advocacy Center members and available on the NCA website :http://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/cac-statistics