The Prevention Perspective

Tracy Darling- DeMarcus
Prevention Manager

At the WCA, we often talk about breaking the cycle of abuse. This cycle can refer to the phases an abusive relationship may go through, but the cycle of abuse can also be generational, creating harmful ripple effects that can impact individuals long after the initial abuse. According to the CDC, exposure to violence in childhood increases the risks of future violence victimization and perpetration. While the WCA’s mission of safety, healing and freedom is essential to supporting survivors, we must also work to break the generational cycle of violence to ensure that our vision of a community where everyone thrives in safe, healthy relationships can be a reality for all. This is where our Prevention Program comes in!

You may have seen things in our newsletter or on our social media about the WCA’s Prevention Program, but what is “prevention”? Primary prevention is changing attitudes, behaviors and norms that support the perpetration of violence and abuse. Our violence prevention strategies are wide-ranging and aim to impact individuals, relationships, the community and society as a whole.

Each month in this column we will explore different topics related to preventing violence, and include information about things that you can do in your own life, with your children or within your community!

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