Survivors of domestic violence need help getting out

Although many services are available to victims of domestic violence, language and cultural barriers do not allow all victims of domestic violence access to the information needed to get out of the abusive relationship.

It is a misconception in many cultures that abuse is a normal and acceptable form of dispute. Many victims also believe that the consequences of reporting the incident can somehow negatively affect the victim. Because of these barriers, many incidents of domestic violence go unreported.

Fresno County law enforcement agencies, the court systems and child-protection services should provide information in all languages on how victims can seek help if they are in a domestic violence relationship.

They should also find ways in which victims can seek this information without putting themselves in danger when doing so.

This story was originally published December 2, 2015 at 6:27 AM with the headline "Survivors of domestic violence need help getting out."