A chat with the ones who know best
What makes interpersonal violence so hard to talk about?
I can’t answer this question, as it’s different for everyone. What I can say is that for many people, this violence affects them intimately, which makes it difficult to talk about. Additionally, many people fear blame, disbelief and judgement in talking about this topic. Another potential reason is that many people aren’t sure if or how others can help, so the risk of bringing up the topic may feel like it’s not worth it.
What are the common misconceptions about domestic and interpersonal violence?
This is difficult to answer as well. Many people may have a difficult time imagining how domestic and interpersonal violence can occur in the first place. Thus, they may feel that if the victim really wanted out, they would leave. Many individuals are unaware of the barriers and the danger in leaving a violent situation. Those barriers are real and necessitate support and resources for the victim if that person is to successfully leave and heal.
What should the average student know about the signs of this violence?
The average student should know that the signs can be hard to spot and that everyone responds to this violence differently. It’s important to keep in mind that others may not respond to violence the way you think you would. Students can also keep in mind that if they are concerned violence is occurring, many resources on campus can talk with them about how to approach a friend. Approaching a friend about violence can be very difficult. I recommend students get support for themselves when doing so.
Where should students go if they are in need of help?
Confidential resources:
Women’s Center, Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse, Counseling and Testing Center
Non-confidential resources:
Moscow Police Substation, Dean of Students Office, Office of Civil Rights Investigations
What is the difference between a confidential and non-confidential source of help?
Confidential resources are places where students can talk about their experiences of interpersonal violence without having information reported to the university. If students share experiences of interpersonal violence with individuals who are not confidential, their information needs to be reported to the university. Even if a report is made, students still have limited control over their story and the matter is held as privately as possible. However, the university will be notified.