Myth: Violence is really only an isolated event. There isn’t much of it happening.

Reality: One out of every 15 relationships is currently experiencing the sort of violence that will send the victim to the hospital.

Myth: Domestic violence only happens to poor people or minorities.

Reality: Abuse can happen in any household, regardless of race, economic background or educational level.

Myth: The victim “makes the partner hit them” by “getting in their face.” They “ask for it.”

Reality: Every relationship has arguments and stress, but most people don’t hit others when they get angry. An abuser has limited skills to deal with stress.

Myth: The victim actually enjoys the attention, needs the violence or is a perpetual victim.

Reality: Victims do not want to be hit. The abuser’s violence is his/her own responsibility.

Myth: The abuser is a sick or crazy monster, angry all the time.

Reality: An abuser can be passive, a “nice person” generous to others and sensitive. Anyone could be an abuser.

Myth: Alcohol or a bad marriage is the cause of violence.

Reality: Most abusers hit whether drunk or sober. Alcohol/substance abuse can reduce the ability to control behavior.