Today there are numerous sources defining what abuse looks like and how to recognize it. These definitions expand well beyond the original concept of domestic violence and have gained many new callouts. It is clear that abuse isn’t always physically violent, and all types of abuse can be damaging. We also know it extends far beyond romantic relationships, and doesn’t only happen to women. (Therapist.com, 2024)
Common terms we hear today include narcissistic abuse, toxic or controlling relationships, interpersonal violence (IPV), sexual assault or harassment, coercion, verbal abuse, bullying, generational trauma, racial abuse, elder abuse, caregiver abuse, financial abuse, systemic violence, human trafficking, misuse of power, spiritual abuse – and more.
It has also become more common to name specific microagressions in an effort to identify exactly what is happening in the interaction. Some of these terms include: gaslighting, DARVO, flying monkeys, fauxpology, double bind, love bombing, FOG, smear campaign, indifference, stonewalling, weaponized incompetence, and typecasting (Marlow-MaCoy & Kempe).
On one hand, it becomes so overwhelming that it can make us question what the world is coming to. On the other hand, naming these behaviors has given us more clarity about interpersonal conflict, and has also vastly expanded our vocabulary in the helping professions. All of this contributes to greater empathy, and much less stigma toward victims.
Understanding the Stigma
The original stigma surrounding domestic violence has long been a common barrier that prevents victims from seeking help and receiving the support they need. Stigma today similarly refers to negative attitudes or beliefs society holds about victimhood in general.
This can manifest in multiple ways; such as viewing victims as weak-minded, stereotyping and typecasting specific cultures, or over-diagnosing these clients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Stigma can also include shaming and blaming, minimizing the abuse, and refusal to believe or help victims (World Health Organization, 2021).
It is true that some people misuse the court system and falsely accuse others of abuse or harassment. It’s also true that sometimes we ourselves can indulge in abusive or toxic behaviors without being aware of it. Either way it’s important to keep having these discussions, and expanding our collective awareness to become more proactive in general.
The Impact of Stigma on Victims
The stigma associated with abuse has profound effects on true victims. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation; making it difficult for them to reach out for help. Victims may fear being judged by healthcare providers or other helping professionals. This fear can exacerbate their trauma and hinder recovery (Smith & Jones, 2020).
Moreover, social stigma around abuse can reinforce power dynamics inherent in these situations. Abusers may exploit this stigma to further isolate their victims, making it even harder for them to seek assistance. As a result, many victims suffer in silence, unable to access the needed support to escape the abuse and rebuild their lives (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2023).
Challenges Faced by Professionals
Helping professionals, including healthcare providers, social workers, and counselors, face many challenges when addressing abuse. One of the main challenges is lack of adequate training on how to recognize and respond to the signs. Without proper training, professionals may perpetuate stigma by dismissing victims’ experiences or failing to provide appropriate resources (Johnson, 2018).
Personal bias and misconceptions about abuse can also hinder professionals’ ability to offer meaningful assistance. For example, some professionals might hold stereotypical beliefs that abuse only occurs because people choose to stay involved in it. Institutional barriers, such as lack of support from management, further complicate efforts to address abuse effectively (Smith & Jones, 2020).
Strategies for Overcoming Stigma
To overcome the stigma associated with abuse, helping professionals can adopt a multi-faceted approach that includes education, empathy, and systemic change. Here are some possible key strategies:
- Education and Training: Ongoing education and training can be productive for helping professionals to understand power dynamics and the impact of stigma. Training programs should include information on recognizing signs of abuse, providing trauma-informed care, and understanding the unique needs of diverse populations (World Health Organization, 2021).
- Empathy and Active Listening: Building trust with victims requires time, empathy and active listening. Professionals can create a safe and non-judgmental environment where victims feel comfortable sharing their fears. Validating victims’ feelings and experiences is essential for breaking down barriers created by stigma (Johnson, 2018).
- Collaborative Approach: Addressing abuse requires collaborative effort among sectors, including healthcare, social services, and law enforcement. By working together, professionals can provide comprehensive support to victims and ensure they receive the resources to escape abuse and rebuild their lives (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2023).
- Advocacy and Policy Change: Advocating for policy changes that support victims of abuse is vital. This includes pushing for better funding for victim services, implementing policies that protect victims’ rights, and promoting public awareness to reduce stigma (Smith & Jones, 2020).
By implementing these strategies, it is a step in the right direction. Helping professionals can play a pivotal role in overcoming the stigma associated with abuse and providing the support victims need to heal and thrive.
Conclusion
Overcoming the stigma of abuse is a critical step towards ensuring that victims receive the support and care they need. By educating ourselves, practicing empathy, collaborating across sectors, and advocating for policy changes, professionals can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for victims.
These strategies are not exhaustive, and still often fail to deliver families to safety. It can be true that some victims aren’t ready, or don’t feel safe enough to escape abusive situations. It is only through ongoing collective effort and a commitment to breaking down stigma that we can hope to address the pervasive issue of abuse effectively.
References and Further Reading
- – Johnson, L. (2018). Overcoming barriers: Addressing domestic violence in healthcare settings. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 33(4), 654-678.
- – A. Marlow-MaCoy & A. Kempe. (2023). The Clinician’s Guide to Treating Adult Children of Narcissists: Pulling Back the Curtain on Manipulation, Gaslighting, and Emotional Abuse in Narcissistic Families. Pesi, Incorporated.
- – National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. (2023). Domestic violence facts. Retrieved from: [NCADV website].
- – Smith, A., & Jones, B. (2020). Stigma as a barrier to seeking health care among victims of domestic violence. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 31(2), 450-465.
- – Therapist.com team: (2024). Abuse and domestic violence: How to recognize it and get help. Retrieved from: [Therapist.com website].
- – World Health Organization. (2021). Understanding and addressing violence against women. Retrieved from: [WHO website].