Domestic Violence Services (DVS) of Greater New Haven helps thousands of victims of domestic violence every year, in a wide variety of ways. Perhaps we can help you or someone you care about who suffers from abuse or the threat of abuse. All our services are free and confidential.
DVS is a private, nonprofit organization that has served the people of New Haven and 12 towns in South Central Connecticut since 1977. Our mission is to create an environment that supports individual safety and breaks the cycle of domestic violence.
Facts about domestic violence.
- Domestic violence involves a pattern of abusive behavior in intimate relationships or between family or household members where one partner tries to control or dominate the other. Abusive acts can be physical, verbal, emotional, financial, and sexual; abuse also can involve threats, destruction of property, and harm to pets. Victims are left feeling frightened, confused, and insecure. They - and their abusers - can be of any age, race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, or economic status.
- Children in an abusive household believe that what they see at home is normal and many mimic the behavior. Some children feel as though their own behavior caused the violence; some resent and blame the abused parent for staying; still others are physically hurt in their efforts to come between the abuser and abused.
- People stay in abusive relationships for many reasons: family, economical security, shared memories, religious beliefs, and a sense of commitment are difficult bonds to break. Many victims say that they want the abuse to stop, but they don't want the relationship to end. Seeking help, getting a restraining order, or deciding to leave only make sense to a victim when it outweighs the overall risks s/he and their children have to deal with.
For the warning signs of domestic violence, click HERE.
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"When I dare to be powerful -
to use my strength in
the service of my vision,
then it becomes less and less
important whether
I am afraid."
Audre Lorde,
American poet, 1934-1992
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