For most families with children, summer break is when they can get outdoors, travel, and enjoy a slower, more easygoing lifestyle. Warmer weather means pool time and enjoying lakes, camping or going to the beach, visiting theme parks and relatives, and doing outdoor activities like sports, barbecues, and more.
Unfortunately, these changes in routine create stress for some families, leading to increased incidents of domestic violence.
What Factors Contribute To A Rise In Domestic Violence In Summer?
According to a survey by the U.S. Department of Justice, Seasonal Patterns in Criminal Victimization Trends, intimate partner violence increases by 12 percent in the summer months compared to other seasons.
Some factors that come into play are:
- Increased stresses due to summer break for children
- Increased temperatures
- Increase in alcohol and drug intake. NOTE: While these factors may possibly increase abuse, they are certainly not the cause of domestic violence and are not to blame; intoxication doesn’t cause abuse, and sobriety doesn’t stop it.
- Increased numbers of parties, drinking, and idle time make teen dating violence tragic for many young people.
- The Department of Justice also found that women ages 16 to 24 are at the highest risk of becoming victims of domestic violence.
What Should I Do If My Family Experiences Domestic Violence During Summer Vacation?
If your family experiences domestic violence during summer vacation, remember, first of all, that you are not alone. There are many resources available to domestic violence victims, such as
- If the loved one being abused is a child, you can contact domestic violence professionals on their behalf. Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline meets abused, neglected, and at-risk children’s physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs. Efforts focused on prevention, intervention, treatment, and community outreach. The website offers a “Find a Local Affiliate” locator that provides program information. You can reach the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 422-4453.
- For an adult victim, you can contact The National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH); NDVH is a 24/7 confidential resource hotline that provides emotional support, support groups, local resources, safety plans, etc., for those who are in a domestic violence situation, as well as a Help for Abusive Partners section. An online chat is also available. You can contact NDVH at (800) 766-7233. For more helpline information and resources, visit the NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) website.
- Contact thehotline.org to get help in your local area.
We’re here for you! Bridges Domestic Violence Center offers resources and support so you can free yourself and your loved ones from danger while living a safe, independent, and happy life. Our services include temporary shelter, crisis intervention, support groups, court and child advocacy, and more. Call us at (615) 599 5777 or message us here.
We are a member agency of United Way of Greater Nashville.