Family member is victim of physical abuse

Both men and women can become victims of physical abuse. The victim is not to blame. No matter what happened, violence is not okay.

Physical abuse includes hitting, pushing, shaking, slapping, kicking, pinching, choking, strangling, tying a person up, drugging a person with medicine, burning, or threats of harm to other family members or pets. The physical abuse may come from a stranger, acquaintance, or from a close friend or another family member. Many victims of abuse know their attacker.

Physical abuse causes bodily injuries, such as bruises, burns, fractures, cuts, punctures, or organ damage.

It may be hard for your family member to ask for help or talk about the abuse. There are many reasons he or she may feel this way. Abusers often use emotional and physical abuse along with apologies, promises, and affection to control their victims. Your family member may feel confused and hold on to the hope that the abuser will change. The abuser may ask for forgiveness, make promises to stop, act loving, or buy the person gifts. Along with painful times, there may be loving moments and happy memories. The abuser may be a good provider or parent.

Once abuse starts, it usually gets worse if steps are not taken to stop it. If your family member was physically abused, it is important for him or her to seek help and continue to get help for as long as it is needed. You can call the police, or a health professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or counselor or a local mental health clinic. Any of these people can help your family member deal with feelings, get medical treatment if needed, and take steps to stop the abuser. If the victim is an older adult, call the local adult protective agency. If the victim is a child, call the local children's protective services agency.

If you think a child or family member has been physically abused, you can help them by reporting the abuse. Resources are available for help.