Myth:

Domestic violence occurs only in lower income areas.

Fact:

Domestic violence crosses all socio-economic, racial, ethnic and religious boundaries.

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Myth:

Drugs and alcohol cause domestic violence.

Fact:

While under the influence someone may be less inhibited, making the abusive behavior more pronounced, abusive tendencies and behaviors are present in the individual at all times, not just when using drugs or alcohol.

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Myth:

The Suffolk County Police Department can issue victims an order of protection

Fact:

Only the Suffolk County Courts can issue orders of protection. Those interested in seeking an order of protection should contact the LIADV 24-Hour Hotline at 631-666-8833.

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Myth:

Domestic violence is not a very widespread problem.

Fact:

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of some form of physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner.

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Myth:

Domestic violence is caused by an anger management issue.

Fact:

Perpetrating any form of domestic violence is a well-thought-out, deliberate pattern of behavior. It is not an anger management issue. If it were, the perpetrator would be verbally and/or physically abusive in all areas of their lives, not just with an intimate partner.