DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS (Updated 6/2014) PURPOSE/POLICY Domestic violence is a serious, life-threatening matter and should be treated like one. It has the potential of affecting not only the victim or abuser, but also the individuals who live and work with this person. PHS is committed to the following: • Promoting a safe and healthful environment for patients and employees • Identifying and taking appropriate action when abuse is affecting patients or employees • Providing referrals resources to patients and employees who are, or may be the victims of domestic violence Definition: Domestic violence is a pattern of assaults and controlling behavior that restricts the activity and independence of another person. It can include physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and economic abuse. Domestic violence affects people of all cultures, religions, ages, sexual orientation, educational and income levels. Warning Signs Any one behavior is not a sign of trouble, but several of the following could be warning signs that a person might be abusive: -Isolation from co-workers -Isolation from family -Isolation from friends -Controlling behavior -Cruelty to animals -Cruelty to children -Force during arguments -Threats of violence -Psychological abuse -Verbal abuse -Breaking & throwing objects -Blaming others The following signs may indicate that a person is a victim of abuse: -Guilt or fear over living conditions -Poor self-esteem -Feels helpless/powerless -Feels angry, embarrassed, and ashamed -Unexplained injuries that go untreated -Fearful of being insane -History of abuse in the home as a child Employee Responsibility: All Presbyterian employees and volunteers have a duty to warn supervisors, security personnel or human resources of any activity, situation or incident that they observe or know of that appears to be a credible threat to safety. This would include the following: -Threats of aggression -Acts of violence or aggression -Aggressive or erratic behavior -Fighting and verbal aggression -Possession of a firearm or weapon on PHS premises -Harassment -Inappropriate and intense outbursts of anger -Stalking Report any suspected domestic violence to your Volunteer Director/Manager (or Service Area Manager).
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