False: Violence against women and children crosses cultural, economic, religious and educational lines.

False: Domestic assaults increase in frequency AND severity, if not checked.

False: Alcohol is often used as an excuse for violence, but it is not the cause.

False: Many women receive their first violent attack during pregnancy or just after birth.

False: Violence against women and children has been with us through the ages and was regulated by law. (“rule of thumb”)

False: Domestic violence is a crime, not a sickness.

False: One violent act or action is a warning sign and should not be ignored.

False: Sexual assault against ANY women is a crime. Marriage is not a defense against prosecution in Canada.

False: Emotional abuse is just as damaging to the victim. It induces of the same fear and threat of physical violence.

True: Children who witness violence are seriously affected and are at risk of repeating the violence in their adult relationships.

True: Acceptance of the home as private territory and support for the idea that women should be submissive to men send a clear message to violent men that force is acceptable.

False: Abused women have great courage and determination when faced with situations of great danger and emotional stress.

False: Violence against women is a criminal offense and police can lay a charge.

True: Men who abuse usually will not admit they are responsible for their actions and will blame the women.

False: No attitude deserves a violent response.

False: Women often feel they must stay because they are afraid to leave. Lack of jobs, pay equity and lack of affordable housing are only a few of the barriers they face when leaving.
