False: Violence against women and children crosses cultural, economic, religious and educational lines.
False: Domestic assaults increase in frequency AND severity, if not checked.
False: Alcohol is often used as an excuse for violence, but it is not the cause.
False: Many women receive their first violent attack during pregnancy or just after birth.
False: Violence against women and children has been with us through the ages and was regulated by law. (“rule of thumb”)
False: Domestic violence is a crime, not a sickness.
False: One violent act or action is a warning sign and should not be ignored.
False: Sexual assault against ANY women is a crime. Marriage is not a defense against prosecution in Canada.
False: Emotional abuse is just as damaging to the victim. It induces of the same fear and threat of physical violence.
True: Children who witness violence are seriously affected and are at risk of repeating the violence in their adult relationships.
True: Acceptance of the home as private territory and support for the idea that women should be submissive to men send a clear message to violent men that force is acceptable.
False: Abused women have great courage and determination when faced with situations of great danger and emotional stress.
False: Violence against women is a criminal offense and police can lay a charge.
True: Men who abuse usually will not admit they are responsible for their actions and will blame the women.
False: No attitude deserves a violent response.
False: Women often feel they must stay because they are afraid to leave. Lack of jobs, pay equity and lack of affordable housing are only a few of the barriers they face when leaving.