Did you know that police interventions related to domestic violence increase by roughly 20% nationally during the holidays? This can include everything from simple threats and harassment to physical abuse of a spouse or child, neglect, sexual coercion, and other violent acts. It is a sad reality, given that the holiday season is supposed to be a time for joy and family.
At Nelson Law Group, PC, we pray that every child, spouse, sibling, and relative can enjoy a loving, safe, stable, and blessed home this holiday season. If that is not possible due to an immediate issue, or you are concerned about a future threat, please seek help now.
Why Does Domestic Violence Increase During the Holidays?
While each family dynamic is different, there are a few common factors that lead to an uptick in domestic violence during the holidays.
- Financial stress — Pressure to buy gifts, excessive traveling, hosting parties, and more can trigger tension and violent behavior.
- Increased alcohol consumption — Many holiday parties involve drinking, which can escalate existing conflicts.
- Divorce or separation — Families dealing with divorce and co-parenting for the first time struggle to keep their emotions in check.
- Family tensions — While it is great to see family during the holidays, these reunions can often reopen old wounds from strained and unresolved relationship issues and lead to heightened aggression.
- Emotional and psychological factors — According to Connections for Abused Women and Their Children, the expectation to maintain a cheerful demeanor, coupled with the stress of family interactions, can lead to heightened emotions. For those already in volatile relationships, these emotional triggers can escalate conflicts into physical violence.
- Isolation and loneliness — Thanksgiving and even Christmas can breed depression, anxiety, and the feeling of being lonely. As a result, some family members may lash out toward others out of pure frustration.
What Can I Do When Faced With a Domestic Violence Situation?
Family violence of any kind is a serious matter that we should all try to have a hand in avoiding and reporting to the necessary agencies. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800-799-7233. Reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be made to any state or local law enforcement agency, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, and the state agency that operates, licenses, certifies, or registers the facility in which the alleged abuse or neglect occurred (daycare facility).
Including as much detail as possible, including incident information, the full names of specific parties involved (perpetrators and victims), their current location, and any other pertinent information, is essential.
Another layer of legal protection is a protective order.
A protective order is issued for the protection of the victim, whether the violence has already happened or is likely to occur. Any violation of a protective order can result in civil and criminal consequences. There are three types of protective orders:
- Temporary ex parte order – When there is a clear and present danger of family violence.
- Final protective order – When family violence has occurred and is likely to happen again.
- Magistrate’s order for emergency protection – Can come into play after a person has been arrested for domestic violence.
Call Nelson Law Group Today!!
Call our knowledgeable staff here at Nelson Law Group, PC, if you have further questions regarding this or any other issue. Our staff is always available. Give us a call today!
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Source: Nelson Law Group