During the COVID-19 pandemic it seemed like the world stopped, but one thing that didn't stop is domestic violence. In fact, it is more prevalent because victims are spending more time with their abusers. How can the church support victims of domestic violence? What signs should we look for? Today's guest, Tracy Michelle Dobbins answers those questions and more.
Tracy Michelle Dobbins is an author and Marriage and Family Counselor from Ocala, FL. She has eight years of counseling experience and counsels regarding anything that can affect the family system. This includes domestic violence, drug addiction, depression, anxiety, premarital counseling, marriage, behavior modification, grief, and trauma.
Ms. Dobbins loves God and has been blessed with two sons and one grandson.
Interview Highlights
* Tracy shares how 1 Samuel 25 demonstrates domestic violence.
* Domestic violence continues because it's a secret everyone keeps, not just the victim.
* Men and women are victims of domestic violence. It isn't just physical.
* 1 in 4 women are victims of domestic violence.
* Domestic violence against the elderly has increased.
* A gun in the home increases the chance of being a victim of violent crime by 15%.
* The signs of an abuser include self-loathing, control issues, and lack of coping skills.
* Abuse is not a survivor's fault nor their responsibility to prevent.
* Domestic abuser survivors and children who witness domestic violence suffer from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrom) that leads to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
* Tracy encourages us to "be ready when they're ready" when assisting victims.
* A red flag for domestic violence among youth and teenagers is the abuser is controlling and jealous (Example: checking their phone).
Relevant Resources/Links
* If you or someone you know is in a physically, mentally, emotionally, and/or financially abusive relationship, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
* Email Tracy Dobbins at tmdobbins@gmail.com.
* Follow We Are The Church on Twitter @WeAreTheChurch8.
* Click here to follow your host, Sherry Jones on Facebook.
* Click here to follow Sherry on Instagram.
* Click here to visit Sherry's website.
Be blessed, take care, be safe, and remember, the church is not a building. We are the church!
