Abuse of Spouse OR Partner

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the injury?

The best way to prevent abuse is to teach children how to solve problems without using violence. Teenagers and young adults should be taught that it's never OK to abuse a partner. Parents and doctors should provide teens with facts and statistics about dating violence. The teens should be given specific information about behaviors that are part of dating violence. They should be encouraged to discuss any issues or concerns with a parent or other trusted adult.

Since health concerns such as cocaine use are associated with a higher risk for partner abuse, doctors should address dating violence when treating teens with these health concerns. Careful screening can help identify at-risk teens and provide a chance to stop the abuse cycle.

As citizens, we can also help prevent the cycle of abuse in our society by pushing for these measures.

  • Make sure judges and police enforce domestic violence laws. This tells abusers that their actions have consequences. It also helps victims feel safer about reporting their abuse.
  • Provide shelters and other support programs that enable victims to leave an unsafe home and avoid further abuse.
  • Teach abusers how to vent their anger without using violence. Offer drug and alcohol treatment when needed.
  • Train doctors to ask the person they are treating about abuse if they suspect it. They also need to be trained to keep careful records of any physical evidence of abuse.