People often think that domestic violence means physical hostility—fistfights, shoving matches, hair-pulling, strangulation, or using weapons—injuries that result in visible signs like bruises and broken bones. But that’s not always the case. Abusers aim to control their partners and they can use a range of other behaviors to try to gain this control. They often […]

Preparations are being made for cards, flowers, candy, balloons and more for this upcoming Valentine’s Day.  Yet, are we fully prepared to be sure that these are healthy relationships?  February is Dating Violence Awareness Month.  Dating violence is repeated verbal, physical, or sexual abuse used to frighten, hurt, and control a girlfriend or boyfriend.  It […]

The legal definitions of stalking vary from one jurisdiction to another; however, a good working definition of stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. A stalker can be someone you know well or not at all. Most have dated or been involved with […]

Take A Stand is a call to action meant to bring attention to the issue of domestic violence for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and throughout the year. By taking a stand we will remind everyone there are countless people impacted by domestic violence.  Take A Stand is an effort to mobilize people to stand up for victims and […]

A closer look at Safe Place’s domestic violence prevention awareness campaign: As contest entries continue to come in and more students get the opportunity to watch the awareness video, I pause to consider what this awareness means to our communities in Conway and Perry County.  For the younger children, I observed a variety of responses.  […]

Healthy relationships require respect, trust and open communication.  Respect for both oneself and others is a key characteristic of healthy relationships. Building healthy patterns early in your relationship can establish a solid foundation for the future. Look for someone who will: • Treat you with respect. • Doesn’t make fun of things you like or want to […]

You are invited to take part in a research study of victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). The purpose of this study is to examine the behaviors associated with IPV, focusing on the Emotional Intelligence levels of IPV victims. This information will assist in providing interventions and training based on the specific emotional needs of […]

Domestic Violence: A Practical Guide for Navigating the Legal System in Arkansas is a book written by attorneys aiming to help domestic violence victims through the criminal, civil and domestic issues within the Arkansas court system that survivors deal with.  Two copies of the book have been distributed to every public library in the state […]

The first day of school brings on a variety of reactions.  A sweet young kindergartener may attempt to hide herself behind her mother’s legs, being fearful of the unknown.  A seventh grade boy may plead with his mom not to linger or take pictures on that first day of school and embarrass him.  Even with […]