BraveSpeaking: Domestic Violence

Noun abuse that happens in the home

a domestic
Oh no, it's happening again. My neighbors are having a domestic for the third time this week. I hate when I hear them fighting.

shiner

Noun discoloration of the skin around the eye from being hit

shiner
Today, I saw the guy had a shiner. He wore sunglasses to try and hide his eye. It's awful. I really want to help but I don't know what to do!

anonymous

Adjective not identified by name

anonymous
If I call the cops I want to remain anonymous. I'm not sure how they would react if they knew I brought in the police.

bruises

Noun injuries appearing as areas of discolored skin in the body

bruises
If I don't take action I fear more bruises will appear. Yesterday, my neighbours' arms were black and blue. Why do they stay together if they can't get along?

hotline

Noun a direct phone number for a specific purpose, especially for use in emergencies

hotline
Well I can't take this anymore. Something MUST be done! I'm going to call 911 and the 1-800 domestic abuse hotline. Someone can help if I call.

shelter

Noun safe place to live

shelter
Maybe one of my neighbors could go to a shelter and stay in a protected environment for a few weeks. But will separation really help them?

restraining order

Noun a legal document that stops one person from contacting another

restraining order
One of them could get a restraining order from the court. This will legally prevent further contact with each other. But will it fix the problem? Will it really make things better for the two of them?

toxic relationship

Noun a relationship with someone who is emotionally or physically abusive

toxic relationship
A toxic relationship is complex and there are no easy answers. But in the end no one should have a partner that abuses them. It it doesn't stop then I believe it's best to separate as hard as that may be.