MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- In response to the devastating effects caused by domestic violence throughout the country, Camp Pendleton, along with the nation is observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month in efforts to help those in need of assistance.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month was derived from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981, which is observed by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The objective was to unite supporters across the nation who look for an answer to end violence against women and children in the U.S. It was not until October 1989 that Congress passed Public Law 101-112, designating the month of October as DVAM.
The theme for DVAM this year is, "Have you crossed the line? End domestic violence before it starts."
The Uniform Code of Military Justice defines domestic violence as an offense that involves the use, attempted use, threatened use of force or violence against a person of the opposite sex who is a former or current spouse.
“One thing a person can do is be aware of fairly typical red flags in their partner’s behavior such as being overly critical or easily angered when unrealistic expectations are not met perfectly,” said Amanda Hinkle, prevention and education specialist, Counseling Services, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “Most importantly trust your gut instincts.”
Domestic violence is not always limited to physical abuse. It can also involve emotional neglect such as threats, seclusion, jealousy and degradation. It also includes sexual abuse.
According to Pendleton’s counseling services, any time an adult is put into physical danger or controlled by threat or use of physical force by their spouse or intimate partner, they have been abused.
“Camp Pendleton is committed to ending domestic violence and is actively involved in all forms of prevention and treatment,” said Hinkle.
Pendleton counseling services has a support system set up for domestic violence counseling and prevention. Case managers asses risk and provide guidance to the parties involved and victim advocates help direct them to appropriate resources.
Counseling services also provides briefs to commands and spouses about domestic violence and holds regular classes for anger management, stress management and communication to assist couples in learning new ways to resolve conflict.
“If someone feels like they are in danger they need to seek help immediately,” Hinkle said.
When an unfortunate event of domestic violence occurs a victim can file a restricted or unrestricted report to neutralize their situation. Restricted reports do not involve military chain of command or law enforcement. Unrestricted reports will include some type of investigation by command and or law enforcement.
According to the Department of Defense's Military Homefront website, one of the most important things a victim of domestic violence can do for defense is to have a safety plan. Safety plans help victims think through their situations in terms of physical and emotional safety and provide easily accessible information on how to obtain emergency assistance, shelter, financial assistance and childcare. It also includes a checklist of items to take upon leaving. Victim advocates often write a safety plan with the victim and give the victim a copy to keep.
“Having a good general knowledge of domestic violence and the help that is available is critical to keeping our families safe,” Hinkle said.
Pendleton’s counseling services also state that those experiencing the crime may find it difficult to seek assistance on their own. It is important that friends and family members have the courage to intervene to ensure safety for victims and their children.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic assault, there are many options to seek for help. Counseling services are available in Bldg. 1122 or call (760) 725-9051 and Bldg. 520512 or call (760) 763-6940. There is also help online at Military One Source at www.militaryonesource.com or call 800-342-9647.
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month Pendleton’s counseling services are also hosting the 2nd Annual Family Legacy and Leadership Expo, Oct. 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Bldg. 1795. This year’s focus is on the effects of domestic violence on children and will feature informative film screenings, resource booths and education.
For a related article on domestic violence visit http://www.defenselink.mil//news/newsarticle.aspx?id=56144