Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Rises Nationwide for Third Year While Economy Struggles; Government Budget Cuts Take Toll on Survivors and Shelters 

Domestic violence shelters throughout the United States report the economy continues to significantly affect women -- with domestic violence increasing for the third straight year and government cutbacks decreasing shelters' ability to help survivors.  In addition to domestic violence incidents growing and funding sources diminishing, the abuse is reportedly more severe, victims are struggling to find jobs and shelters expect the situation will only get worse in light of the economy -- according to the third "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse" national survey.

More than 670 domestic violence shelters across the country were surveyed in March 2011.  Shelters report the economy's decline since 2008 has increased demand for their services, and they also note their shelters' ability to raise funds and provide services will be hampered over the next 12 months.

Detailed findings from the 2011 "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse" survey reveal alarming trends in light of the economy's decline since 2008, including:

• 80 percent of domestic violence shelters nationwide (more than three out of four) report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse.
• 73 percent of shelters attribute the rise in abuse to financial issues.
• 48 percent of shelters link this increase in domestic violence to job loss.
• 89 percent of domestic violence shelters expect their overall situation during the next 12 months will be worse than now, or the same as now, due to the economy.
• 76 percent of domestic violence shelters (three out of four) indicate their funding has decreased the most from governmental organizations.
• 65 percent of women in shelters can't find employment due to the economy.
• 56 percent of shelters note the abuse is more violent now than before the economic downturn.
• 77 percent of shelters (more than three-fourths) indicate their clients stayed longer in their relationships due to the economy.