Domestic Violence: The Victim's Story...
After talking to the counselor, Veronica decides to get the police involved. She understands the risks but has decided it is in her and her children's best interest to stop this violence and get help before it's too late. She recognizes that they both need help but is not sure that Dan will be able to see things the same way that she now does. Veronica calls the police and says that she would like to make a report and requests protection. She explains that she cannot come to the station because her husband has taken her keys from her. She has been beaten and is afraid for her safety and her children. The dispatch sends an officer out to take her report. Later that day, Dan is served with a protective order. Dan is furious but he is not allowed in the house for 10 days. The judge also orders them both into a domestic violence program. Veronica is elated even though Dan is not. He is ordered to go to a Batterer's intervention program, Veronica is ordered to go to a domestic violence program. The both know it will be a long process towards the road to recovery from the power and control issues that plague their relationship but for now this is a start.
Discussion
Myth's about Victim Protective Orders:
1. Protective Orders do not keep a person from violating the order.
2. Protective Orders are not a stand alone intervention but should be used in collaboration with an active safety plan and exit plan in case of violation by the abuser.
3. Protective Orders once fulfilled do not establish a guarantee that this person is going to act in healthy ways in their relationship after their return. Counseling, the establishment of strong support systems that reinforces accountability for one's actions and responsibility to the partner (victim) should also be pursued following the establishment of protective order.
1. Protective Orders do not keep a person from violating the order.
2. Protective Orders are not a stand alone intervention but should be used in collaboration with an active safety plan and exit plan in case of violation by the abuser.
3. Protective Orders once fulfilled do not establish a guarantee that this person is going to act in healthy ways in their relationship after their return. Counseling, the establishment of strong support systems that reinforces accountability for one's actions and responsibility to the partner (victim) should also be pursued following the establishment of protective order.
(Choose Veronica's next step)