Domestic violence is not a problem in my community.

• A total of 120,388 adults and children received domestic violence services in Ohio in 2007.
• In 2008, CHOICES provided temporary shelter to 510 women and children in central Ohio.

Domestic violence only happens to poor women and women of color.

• Domestic violence happens in all kinds of families and relationships. Persons of any class, culture, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, age, and sex can be victims or perpetrators of domestic violence.

Some people deserve to be hit.

• No one deserves to be abused. Period. The only person responsible for the abuse is the abuser.
• Physical violence, even among family members, is illegal.

Alcohol, drug abuse, stress, and mental illness cause domestic violence.

• Alcohol use, drug use, and stress do not cause domestic violence. While they may be present in violent situations, they are not the cause and are no excuse for abusive behavior.
• Generally, domestic violence occurs when an abuser has learned the behavior and chooses to abuse.
• Domestic violence is rarely caused by mental illness, but it is often used as an excuse for domestic violence.

Domestic violence is a private family matter between a husband and a wife.

• Domestic violence affects everyone.
• About 1 in 3 American women has been physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in her life.
• In 2007, 33% of all female murder victims were killed by their husbands or boyfriends.

If it were that bad, she would just leave.

• There are many reasons why women may not leave, such as lack of financial resources, a fear of escalating the violence, or a lack of knowledge of support resources. Not leaving does not mean that the situation is okay or that the victim wants to be abused.
• Leaving can be dangerous. In fact, the most dangerous time for a woman who is being abused is when she tries to leave.

If you are involved in a relationship where you are being hurt or abused, remember that you are not alone, it is not your fault, and help is available. Call the CHOICES 24-hour hotline at (614) 224-4663.