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American Institute onDomestic Violence |
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Domestic Violence Targets the Heart of American Business. |
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Corporate Myth-Management
Myth: We don't need to train our staff about domestic violence. That is a personal issue that has nothing to do with the workplace. Fact: By ignoring the direct and indirect effects of domestic violence on employees, business owners lose $3-$5 billion annually. In addition, employers forfeit another $100 million for in lost wages and lost work associated with domestic violence in the workplace. Domestic violence does effect your bottom line.
Fact: Battered workers usually will not approach their employer for help. Research on battered women demonstrates the primary reason the victim does not disclose abuse at home is fear of job loss or retribution. Remember, her job may represent her only independence from the batterer.
Myth: All we can do is offer EAP services. Beyond that, we don't have any financial liability.
Fact: Current jury awards to victims, co-workers and their estates have ranged from $25,000 to several million dollars, paid by employers who failed to properly and adequately address domestic violence at work.
Myth: If she does not ask for help, she must not want to leave the abusive relationship.
Fact: Battered women stay in abusive relationships for many reasons; financial dependence, children, fear of the batterer, safety issues, societal expectations, shame/humiliation, fear of retribution, self esteem or lack of resources are some of those reasons.
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Copyright © 2001 American Institute on Domestic Violence |
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Myth: If a victim of domestic violence wants help,
we have Human Resource staff available. All the battered worker has to do is
ask!
