Training Support Center (TSC) Great Lakes held a staff training focused on domestic violence Dec. 10.

The Catharsis Production training given to over 100 civilian and military staff focused on defining violence and abuse, legal ramifications and assistance, and resources available to staff.

“Our goal today is to holistically delve into domestic violence,” said Heather Imrie, MEd, Catharsis Productions facilitator. “We want everyone to be on the same page when we are defining the issue. The legal portion will not only address both military and civilian aspects but will take a deeper dive into the related issues of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. Finally, we wanted to get into the resources are how do you look out for each other how do refer someone who are the folks that take care of the people here.”

Domestic Violence is a pattern of physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse, which includes, but is not limited to, threats, intimidation, isolation and/or financial control. Domestic Violence is an intentional pattern of behavior that is used by one person as a means to harm and take power and control over another person in the context of a dating, family, roommate or caretaker relationship.

Domestic violence is a civilian as well as a military issue and is more prevalent than people know. Victims, perpetrators and individuals who are friends, family members, shipmates, commanders, for these individuals need to the know the dynamics of it to be able to intervene properly and connect individuals to resources both in and outside of the military.

“A lot of people would say that they would not let this happen to them, or why can’t you just leave,” Imrie said. “I’m hoping people will realizing how incredibly complicated this is. I hope people realize that the question is not why did they stay, but what were the barriers that prevented them from leaving. And also, if you grow up with faulty models you do not need to continue the cycle; you can reach out organizations that can help to learn ways not to fall into the trap.”

During the legal portion of the training Illinois domestic violence law was discussed alongside Department of Defense (DOD) policy and federal law. The point was made that federal and state laws could work hand-in-hand. For example, if a restraining or protection order is issued by a judge or magistrate in civil, family or criminal court, Federal law (Armed Forces Domestic Security Act) and DoD policy (DoDI 6400.06) requires the order be enforced on military installations and property.

“Often times, service members are focused on what the response system is in the military,” said Brian Clubb, J.D., U.S. Marine Corps Reservist (ret.) and project director for Military & Veterans Advocacy for Battered Women’s Justice Project. “Sailors need to realize there is also a civilian system that interacts for the benefit, as well as hindrance, when it comes to responding to domestic violence incidents for victims and offenders.”

There are a number of individuals and organizations on a military installation that are key in preventing and responding to domestic violence. It is important for community-based victim advocates to know the roles and responsibilities of these key players and to establish contact with them.

“My goal was to educate people on what the family advocacy program does and our efforts in promoting healthy relationships as opposed to the terms domestic abuse and child abuse,” said Catherine Loisel, LCSW, family advocacy representative at Fleet and Family Support Center. “Our most important message to TSC today is the need to intervene at the lowest possible level. As soon as there may be some shouting or screaming some things that are going on that are not healthy, it is important to get that reported to fleet and family for preventative services before we have to initiate a family advocacy program case.”

Speak with a counselor of victim advocate at a local Fleet and Family Support Center or a healthcare provider at a military treatment facility about reporting domestic violence. If you think you may be a victim of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit your installation Fleet and Family Support Center for information on available resources.

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