Working Closely With Domestic Violence: Micro and Macro Level Social Work

Working Closely With Domestic Violence: Micro and Macro Level

What single crisis affects at least 2 million women of all surroundings each year and is the most common reason for women entering hospital emergency rooms, superseding to childbirth, automobile accidents, muggings and all other medical emergencies (Mills, 1996)? The correct answer is domestic violence. Domestic violence, which is a form of battering, encompasses slapping, punching, pushing someone down, strangling, kicking, using objects to strike, intimidating with weapons, stabbing, and shooting (Kirst-Ashman & Hull, 2002). Although these verbs seem disturbing enough, the most alarming fact is that only an estimated 14 percent of American women who experience battery ever make contact with the police (Mills, 1996).
There are many reasons as to why battered women fail to seek legal support as well as help from other professionals. The reasons may include having an economic dependence on the spouse, a lack of self-e...