This Page Was Last Updated: 11/21/01
Domestic violence, when one partner, family member or spouse physically harms or emotionally abuses another, occurs everywhere, crossing social, economic and educational lines to affect an estimated 8-12 million women in the United States. While 95% of the primary victims are women, families and children may also suffer serious physical, psychological and social harm stemming from the violent behavior. Family violence, including battering, child and elder abuse in addition to partner abuse, involves the domination and victimization of a weaker person by a stronger one. The problem comprises a pattern of repetitive, coercive behaviors that range from beating to social isolation, harassment, deprivation and intimidation.
You, a family member or a friend may be affected by domestic violence. If so, there are many agencies and services that can help you deal with this complex problem. Calling an advocate from the Lexington Domestic Violence Response Team (Lexington DVRT) may be the first step you or a friend may make to overcome a violent relationship.
The Lexington Domestic Violence Response Team is a group of committed community agencies working together to provide advocacy, intervention and support to families affected by domestic violence. In addition to providing services, the DVRT seeks to prevent domestic violence through education, training and community support.
If you need help facing a domestic violence problem, an advocate from the Lexington Domestic Violence Response Team can help. Protecting yourself and your family from domestic violence often requires aid from legal, health and social service agencies. Your advocate can help you find support, counseling, access to legal and police help, and provide you with information on domestic violence and its effect on individuals and families.
To contact your advocate, call (781) 862-0500, Ext 736.
Or, contact the Lexington Police Department at (781) 862-1212
Domestic violence starts when a partner or family member forcefully takes emotional or physical control of another partner. The following are signs of domestic abuse that can escalate into a dangerous situation:
 | Verbal abuse - Embarrassing you, blaming, interrupting, yelling |
| Sexual abuse - Degrading treatment using force or coercion to obtain sex |
| Deprivation - Of food, clothing, money |
| Isolation - Making it difficult for you to see friends, relatives |
| Intimidation - Standing in a doorway during arguments, driving recklessly, threatening |
| Threat of physical harm - Slapping, kicking, punching, using weapons |
| Destructiveness - Destroying possessions, punching walls, throwing or breaking things |
| Harassment - Making uninvited calls, checking up on you |
| Homophobia - Degrading comments based on gender or orientation |