Is Your Relationship Healthy ?

By Maureen BirksWomen’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley

Who We Are:

• Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley provides emergency shelter and emotional support for women and children who have experienced abuse in their family.

• We work with children who have witnessed abuse of their mother in their homes.

Acknowledgment

• It is important to acknowledge that not all men abuse women. This presentation is not about blaming men in general, but rather about gaining awareness into a dangerous relationship dynamic.

• Relationship abuse can happen to anyone, no matter what culture, ethnicity, religion, income status, gender, or sexual orientation you identify with.

• We acknowledge that abuse may be perpetrated by both men and women. However, because statistics reveal that there is a higher percentage of men who abuse women, we will be referring to the “abuser” as male.

What is Abuse?• Definition: to treat in a harmful, injurious, or offensive way; to speak

insultingly, harshly, and unjustly to another; to attempt to control some or all aspects of another person

• Types of Abuse– Physical– Sexual– Verbal – Emotional/Psychological

Forms of Abuse in Relationships

Spot the Myth

• 5 posters – go to each poster, read the statement and answer with a or an x

“Jealousy and possessiveness are signs of true love”“Name-calling and put-downs are ok if they are a joke”“Emotional abuse is not as serious as physical abuse”“Abusive behaviour decreases over time”“A man can still be a good father even if he abuses his partner”“If someone takes you on a date, they have a right to expect

something from you”

Love Is/Love Isn’t

If someone you know is being abused...

• Try to express to them that you are concerned for their safety and respect and that no one deserves to be abused

• Encourage your friend to seek services(i.e.. Ann Davis Society, or Victim Assistance, etc...)

• Recognize that there are many reasons why partners stay in an abusive relationships and leaving can be the most dangerous time for a person.

Above all, please do not take matters into your own hands and approach the abusive partner

Any Questions?