Prejudice Violence happens only to others; abusers come from different environments.

Reality Abusers are ordinary people encountered every day, and often show no aggression outside the family.

Prejudice Violence involves only the use of physical force.

Reality Violence also includes demonstrations of power, neglect, threats, isolation, restrictions on contact, total control, treating a person as a sexual object, economic dependence… not only physical force.

Prejudice Victims provoke abusers with their behavior.

Reality No one is responsible for the violence they experience. Silence about violence is a consequence of fear—fear of the abuser, their threats, and fear of judgment from the community and environment.

Prejudice Children are victims of violence only if someone directly abuses them.

Reality Domestic violence is always violence against children, whether they are directly exposed to it or not. Children who grow up around violence often take on parental roles and may later become either abusers or victims themselves.

Prejudice Violence occurs only under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Reality Alcoholism and drug addiction are not causes of violence, but they do increase its frequency and brutality.

Prejudice Violence is committed by socially disadvantaged and uneducated people.

Reality Violence occurs in all social groups, regardless of education or economic status.

Prejudice Divorce is expensive and brings shame to the whole family.

Reality Only court costs are paid during a divorce, and the victim may be exempt from paying them if financially unable, or may request that the abuser cover the expenses. Initiating and completing divorce proceedings demonstrate a woman’s maturity and determination to take responsibility for her own life and her children’s lives.

Prejudice It is better for children to have a father, even if he is violent.

Reality For proper physical and psychological development, children need safety, stability, and support—which can be provided by a single parent.