Family violence is another term for domestic violence. It involves people who are related, live together or are in a romantic relationship.
Family violence is a common crime that happens to one out of every three Texans.
Definition of family violence
Family violence does not have to involve actual physical contact. It only needs to involve one person making another fear that physical harm will occur. The intent to hurt a family member or partner is enough to fit this crime under Texas law.
Physical assaults are not the only incidents that occur under family violence. It can also include emotional, psychological and financial abuse.
Victims of family violence
Family violence can happen to anyone of any age or gender. Although, women are most often the victims. Violence against children usually falls under another crime category, but they are also often victims. It is also more common in people between the ages of 20 and 40.
Even those not directly assaulted in a situation can suffer. Witnesses of the abuse may also suffer mental effects that could impact the rest of their lives. Children are especially vulnerable to having long-lasting issues from witnessing family violence.
The state and private organizations provide many resources to help those living in family violence situations, including those who are committing the crimes. Getting help for anger issues or other problems that lead to these actions can help a person to turn his or her life around and end the cycle of violence before anyone else suffers harm.
