Is your neighbor a domestic violence victim?

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Story Published: Aug 28, 2008 at 11:30 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 12:23 AM PST

By Stephanie Smith

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LEWISTON - It's a disturbing statistic. One in four women are victims of domestic violence. So odds are you know someone in that situation.

The YWCA of Lewiston-Clarkston offers advice about what to do if you suspect someone you know, or live by, is an abusive relationship.

"If you have a friend who's being abused, the first thing that you should probably do is let them know that they don't deserve to be treated that way," said YWCA Domestic Violence Advocate Karla Steele. "Everybody deserves to be treated with respect and that there is help available."

It's particularly a difficult situation if you don't know the people involved.

"If you don't know the person, but you hear, lets say, arguing, screaming, yelling going on, first you need to decide, is this the first time that you've ever heard it,” said Steele. “Because lots of couples argue once in a while, but if it sounds like things are getting out of hand or you hear it often, then this is a pattern of behavior. Domestic violence is a pattern, it's not just a one time incident. So if it sounds like someone is going to be harmed, call the police."

If you're unsure if the verbal abuse has turned physical, Steele said try talking to victim.

"Never approach who you think the abuser is, because that's just dangerous," said Steele. "If you can approach the victim, at some point when she is alone, and basically let her know there is help available, let her know that you're concerned for her safety and tell her what you think you hear going on and let her know about the programs at the YWCA."

The YWCA offers a variety of those programs.

"One of the major programs here at the YWCA is the Domestic Violence Program and there is safety available for them if they need a safe place to go to," said Steele. "There are programs such as our women's support group and legal advocacy."

The YWCA runs a 24-hour help line at either (208) 746-9655 or (800) 669-3176.

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