One of the most common effects of domestic violence and abuse is depression. Victims of domestic violence are often humiliated and degraded on a daily basis. Their abusers undermine their value and make them believe that they are worthless. After repeatedly having negative comments directed towards, victims of this psychological abuse may begin to believe the harmful insults of their abuser. In most cases, an individual who is being subjected to domestic violence will develop an extremely low self esteem.
They may even begin to accept that they deserve the abuse from which they are suffering. Victims of abuse and brutality may become extremely anxious because they are never certain of what type of behavior they should expect from their abuser. They may never feel safe and secure in their own home, and may fear for the safety on a daily basis. Depression is severely detrimental to the well being of an individual. This psychological disorder may cause a victim of abuse to being so sad and indifferent that they have no motivation to escape their abusive environment.
In many cases, victims of domestic violence will suffer from extensive physical injuries. These injuries will range in severity and location. Wounds that are often displayed by victims of domestic violence include bruises, lacerations, burns, and fractures. Display signs as a result of domestic violence, drug and Alcohol Dependence
Victims of domestic violence and abuse are more likely then other individuals to become reliant on drugs and alcohol as a method of coping with their pain. People who are subjected to physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and economic abuse, experience a great deal of physical and psychological pain. Individuals living in abusive environments may receive regular beating that result in very agonizing wounds.
The psychological damage that is caused by domestic abuse is just as painful. In order to cope with the pain that they experience on a regular basis, victims of domestic violence may turn to drugs and alcohol. Research suggests that these substances act as an anesthetic, reducing the severity of physical and emotional pain. Inebriation due to substance abuse may cause an individual to feel temporarily content, even if this only lasts for a short period of time. Substance abuse provides victims with a way to momentarily escape their horrific situation.
Health Problems, Eating Disorders, and Malnutrition
Research has indicated that individuals who are subjected to domestic violence and abuse are more likely to suffer from health problems. People who are suffering from violence and brutality are living in an extremely stressful environment. An individual who is responsible for subjecting their partner to abuse often experiences sudden shifts in behavior and temperament. This may cause a victim of abuse to always remain extremely anxious.
They will be fearfully awaiting the next episode of brutality. High levels of stress and anxiety suppress an individuals immune system and allow illnesses to prosper. Victims of domestic violence and abuse are more likely to develop an eating disorder then individuals who have not suffered from abuse. Victims of abuse may use their food intake in order to reestablish a sense of control. They may also restrict their food intake as a method of self punishment, which may result in extensive malnourishment.
Self injury, Neglect, and Suicide
Individuals who have been subjected to physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, or financial abuse, often experience extremely detrimental psychological effects of this domestic violence. They may develop psychological disorders such as depression and post traumatic stress disorder. In many cases, a victim of domestic abuse may develop sleep disorders, and they may experience severe nightmares.
Trouble falling asleep or remaining asleep are common problems for individuals who have been exposed to violence or abuse. Other victims of abuse may experience panic attacks when they are reminded of traumatic events, or when they are enduring extreme stress and pressure.
In order to help minimize the psychological effects of domestic violence, many victims will externalize their pain. These individuals will complain of various ailments that do not contrive a medical diagnosis. These individuals are suffering from somatization disorder. All of these disorders are extremely adverse, and may effect a victims day to day life.
