The D.I.V.A.S. and B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. organizations of Shippensburg University hosted a discussion on domestic abuse awareness in Stewart Hall on Oct. 23.
The conversation was led by Dr. Shanda R. Jefferson, who is a clinical mental health specialist. The discussion centered around what a healthy relationship is versus an unhealthy one, along with how men can also be victims.
“Awareness is the first step toward change,” Jefferson said to the audience.
Many students voiced their thoughts on what love and a healthy relationship is. Some conversations also differed from Jefferson's views, leading to friendly and passionate debates on the issues.
“Control to me denotes that we are fighting for power,” Jefferson said during a passionate discussion with a student.
Jefferson also brought up that women are not the only ones impacted by domestic abuse.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, nearly 10% of men in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking by a partner, and they reported it having a related impact on their lives.
“Abuse doesn’t discriminate,” said Jefferson.
According to Jefferson, leaving an abusive situation can be much harder for men because many people believe domestic violence only happens to women. This leaves men to struggle with emotional issues, silence and shame.
Jefferson said victims need to “heal our wounds from the inside out,” not the other way around.
For on-campus domestic abuse resources, please visit the sources below.
Counseling Center: 717-477-1481
Multicultural Student Affairs Office: 717-477-1616
SU Police Department: 717-477-1444
Organizations with off-campus resources can be found below.
Love is Respect Hotline: 1-866-331-9474
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
RAINN Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
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