There are many myths that exist when it comes to the reality of domestic violence. Below are a few we've come across over the years:
Wife assault doesn't happen that frequently and in most cases, the incidents are blown out of proportion
In a study conducted by the Ministry of the Solicitor General, one in five Canadian
men living with a woman admitted to using violence against her. Accurate statistics
are difficult to attain since domestic abuse remains a largely under-reported crime –
the police are called in just 22% of incidents.
Domestic abuse mainly affects the young and poor.
Abuse is a widespread problem and occurs in all racial, ethnic, social, economic
and age groups.
Women often do things to provoke their partners
Domestic violence is rooted in the perpetrator's desire for power and control. Victims
report a wide range of "reasons" for the outbursts, many as minor as "buttering the
toast the wrong way." Abusive partners may avoid taking responsibility for their actions
and blame the victim: "She made me do it."
Alcohol and drugs are leading causes of domestic assault
Alcohol or illegal drugs are often present in domestic violence incidents. Abusers
may blame their violent behaviour on alcohol/drugs. Thus avoiding responsibility for
their actions. The true cause of domestic assault, is the desire to intimidate and control.
Perpetrators of domestic assault are mentally ill.
Batterers are generally not violent outside the home or with other people they interact with – such as their friends, colleagues and bosses. Mentally ill people would not be able to practice such selective violence.
Men are just as likely to be the victims of domestic assault as women.
More than 92% of charges involving domestic assault in Ontario are laid against men. In the majority of cases involving women as perpetrators, charges are due to acts of self-defense or counter-charges laid by abusive partners. Women suffer more frequent and extreme incidents of violence than men and are more likely to sustain serious or life-threatening injuries.
