There's an article on CNN this morning about Domestic Violence/Abusive Relationships and the cycles women go through as they stay in the relationship. It brought up some good points
1. This is every woman's story who's been abused
2. Love DOESN'T hurt
3. If he hits once, it's likely he will hit you again.
4. IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT
This is a serious issue in society that I feel very strongly about. I know that women love their partners and it's hard to break away from the cycle because it's possible that people can change. And I know that it doesn't matter what anyone says, YOU have to be ready to leave and walk away. Talk to your friends or someone you trust if you're going through this. (or call a hotline if you can't/don't want to talk to someone you know)
On the other hand, if someone you know is going through this sort of relationship just be there whenever they need you and help them in whatever way you can. It may take them a long time to leave the relationship, but be patient.
Here's a listing of books that can be found in libraries/bookstores:
Some of them deal with rape and other violent relationships
13 Reasons Why: Jay Asher
Breathing Underwater: Alex Flinn
Claiming Georgia Tate: Gigi Amateau
Dreamland: Sarah Dessen
Every Move: Peter McPhee
Fault Line: Janet Tashjian
Forged by Fire: Sharon M Draper
Freaky Green Eyes: Joyce Carol Oates
Friction: E.R. Frank.
Good Girls: Laura Ruby
Inexcusable: Chris Lynch
Jailbait: Leslea Newman
Past Forgiving: Gloria Miklowitz
Sandpiper: Wittlinger, Ellen.
Speak: Laurie Halse Andersom
Such a Pretty Girl: Laura Weiss
Teach Me: R.A. Nelson
The Facts Speak for Themselves: Brock Cole
Things Change: Patrick Jones
Unexpected Development: Marlene Perez
Watching the Roses: Adele Geras
What Mr. Mattero Did: Priscilla Cummings
Wonder When You’ll Miss Me: Amanda Davis
Nonfiction Titles:
Dating Violence: John Hicks
In Love and Danger:
Hotlines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE(7233)
24/7 (anyone can call for advice/help)
or
Rape: Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) (800) 656-HOPE
