A reason for divorce: Domestic Violence

The original concern was violence within marriage, but this has been expanded to include emotional, psychological and financial abuse.

Research on domestic abuse
The end of 2008 saw the death of Kate Cavanagh, the social science researcher, social worker and activist who worked to expose and understand the problem.  Kate, enrolled at the new University of Stirling in 1971 where she first met Rebecca and Russell Dobash, lecturers in the sociology department.  It was at this time that Rebecca and Russell stumbled across the issue they called ‘battered wives'.

A great deal is now known about domestic abuse.  The significant finding from the years of research is that abusive behaviour towards a partner follows a pattern that usually leads to an escalation of aggression.  It is one of the most valid and obvious reasons for getting divorced.

Credit crunch and domestic abuse
Certain conditions increase the likelihood of an outburst including excessive alcohol, lack of self esteem and stress.  It is feared that the financial pressures resulting from the current financial crisis and looming recession will generate an increase in controlling behaviour.  Women who hang on in the hope that things will improve on their own accord, wait in vain - it never abates.  They must take the initiative to resolve the situation. 

Thanks to Kate, and the army of people who work in this field, there is now a network of agencies and advisers that offer help to victims of domestic violence and their children.  Workers are highly experienced and aware of the tricks, ploys and blackmail used by their bullying partners. They are entirely familiar with the reign of terror that keeps wives, (and occasionally husbands) who have a compelling reason for getting divorced from speaking out, seeking advice and hopefully retrieving the relationship.

What to do if this is happening to you
Kate Cavanagh worked for 30 years to expose and prevent domestic violence:  in just a few minutes an abused woman can change her life for the better, forever.  If that is happening to you then the National Domestic Violence Helpline is there to help.  Call them now on 0808 2000 247. 

24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.  All calls are free and confidential.

Refuge, supported by the HBOS Foundation, has produced a comprehensive guide called ‘You can afford to leave:  A financial guide for women and children experiencing domestic violence'.  You can download the guide from Refuge at http://www.refuge.org.uk/  (Refuge's website has a secrecy button so you can access the site without your partner finding out.)