Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is not always physical—it is a pattern of behavior used to gain power and control over another person. At Girl, LIVE!, we are committed to educating, equipping, and empowering girls and young women with knowledge, support, and faith-based tools for healing.


Types of Domestic Violence

  • Emotional Abuse: Isolation, gaslighting, manipulation, humiliation
  • Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, choking, pushing
  • Sexual Abuse: Unwanted touching, sexual coercion
  • Verbal Abuse: Threats, yelling, constant criticism
  • Digital Abuse: Controlling social media, excessive monitoring
  • Financial Abuse: Restricting access to money or financial decisions

Warning Signs

  • Feeling afraid to speak up
  • Being told what to wear, say, or do
  • Being blamed for someone else’s behavior
  • Experiencing repeated cycles of abuse and apology
  • Isolation from friends and family

Faith and Encouragement

You are not alone. You are not what happened to you. God sees you and loves you.


“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

Take Action

Learn More: Participate in the Girl, LIVE! Domestic Violence Awareness Curriculum


Attend: Join us at the Girl, LIVE! Empowerment Conference & Gala


Need Help? Reach out to a trusted adult, faith leader, or local domestic violence hotline.


Visit www.girllive.org for more information and upcoming events.


1. Prevalence of Exposure

Studies indicate that between 3.3 million and 10 million children are exposed to adult domestic violence annually in the U.S.


Research has found that 65.4% of youth in treatment foster care have witnessed domestic violence.

2. Impact on Foster Youth

Approximately 20.4% of young adults with foster care backgrounds reported experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) by age 23.


Youth with histories of emotional abuse, caregiver IPV victimization, and placement instability are at heightened risk of IPV involvement.

3. Co-Occurrence with Other Forms of Maltreatment

Children who witness IPV are 15 times more likely to be victims of child abuse themselves.


Families experiencing IPV often face additional risk factors, such as substance abuse, which can lead to child welfare involvement.

4. Long-Term Consequences

Youth exposed to domestic violence are at increased risk for mental health issues, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety.


Exposure to domestic violence during childhood is linked to higher rates of homelessness and involvement in the criminal justice system in adulthood.

Implications for Support and Intervention


These statistics underscore the critical need for targeted support for foster youth who have experienced domestic violence. Interventions should include:


  • Trauma-Informed Care: Implementing practices that recognize and respond to the effects of all types of trauma.
  • Mental Health Services: Providing access to counseling and therapy to address emotional and psychological needs.
  • Stable Placements: Ensuring consistent and safe living environments to reduce further trauma.
  • Education and Awareness: Educating caregivers and professionals about the signs of domestic violence and its impact on youth. Buckeye Ranch


By addressing these areas, we can work towards breaking the cycle of violence and providing foster youth with the support they need to thrive.