Look for these possible indicators for domestic violence. If someone
you know is being abused, they may show one or more of these signs:
- Visible Physical Injuries: Bruises, lacerations, burns, human
bite marks, and fractures (especially of the eyes, nose, teeth, and
jaw); injuries during pregnancy, miscarriage, or premature births;
injuries that are inconsistent with explanation; multiple injuries in
different stages of healing; unexplained delay in seeking medical
treatment for injuries.
- Stress-Related Illnesses: Headaches,
backaches, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disorders,
eating disorders, fatigue, anxiety-related conditions (such as heart
palpitations, hyperventilation, and panic attacks).
- Marital and/or Family Problems
- Depression
- Alcohol or Other Drug Addictions
- Absenteeism: Lateness, leaving early.
- Changes in Job Performance: Difficulty concentrating, repeating errors, slower work pace.
- Unusual or Excessive Number of Phone Calls: From family members; strong reactions to these calls.
- Disruptive Personal Visits: To the workplace from employee's present or former partner or spouse.
- Overly Dressed: Turtlenecks, long sleeves in the summertime.
- Jumpy, Irritable
- Withdrawn
- Statements: "My husband won't let me...", "He got so mad that he put his fist right up to my nose...", etc.
- Lack of Personal Grooming: A total change from past habits.
- Shows Low Self-Esteem
