If you believe a loved one is experiencing domestic violence – did you know confronting the perpetrator could be the worst thing to do?
The Briefing continues the focus on what you might not know about domestic violence – digging deep into how individuals can help friends and family who they believe may be experiencing domestic or sexual violence.
Antoinette Lattouf sat down with Emily Maguire, CEO of Respect Victoria on how to spot an abusive relationship and help a friend or relative who’s in one – and it seems listening is key.
“All of the research tells us, and all of the women who have experienced violence talk about is that listening and believing are the things that make the most difference.”
She also says just telling someone to leave isn’t the answer:
“On average, it takes a woman seven attempts to leave her partner. So even if she, if you have a conversation with her and she does leave, it’s pretty likely that she’ll go back.
She explains key red flags of a perpetrator are being controlling, manipulative behaviour, abusive language, and things like tracking their partner’s mobile phone or checking their messages.
To find out more, listen to today’s episode of The Briefing wherever you get your podcasts and remember you can call 1800 RESPECT for more support and advice.