Today I have the distinct pleasure of attending one of our newest programs, Combating the Workplace Effects of Intimate Partner Violence. This program originated from a research project undertaken by two Walton College faculty members whose research showed strong correlations between domestic violence and negative business impact. From that research, we found a need to educate our business community and provide additional training on the topic.
Our facilitator today, Detective David Williams, will be leading us through several examples of the negative workplace impact of domestic violence and the need for increased employer involvement in such situations.
One of the first things we are exposed to in this course is a recording of an actual attack on a young lady in a parking lot. Fortunately, this victim was able to record the audio of the attack which was used later as evidence. This compelling audio clip makes the case that the topic of domestic violence should never be taken lightly.
Det. Williams poses the question regarding who is liable for reporting instances of domestic abuse: individuals, neighbors, coworkers, employers, supervisors? This is especially important for businesses to consider as there may be legal consequences involved. To help answer this question, think about the following shared consequences of domestic violence:
- Nearly $5 billion per year in medical expenses
- More that $100 million in lost wages, sick leave, non-productivity
- 30% of domestic violence victims lose their jobs
- Increased school absences and lower grades (victims and witness/victims)
- Children are 15 times more likely to be abused/neglected in a domestic violence home
- Domestic violence is THE strongest risk factor for transmitting violence to the next generation
- More babies are born with birth defects due to battery on pregnant mothers than all illnesses combined
- Depression in victims is 60%-80% (7% is population)
- PTSD in victims is 30%-40% (1% in population)
- Increased propensity for addiction/substance abuse
We now hear from Dr. Carol Reeves and Dr. Anne O'Leary-Kelly who are here to discuss their research study, funded by the National Institute for Justice. Below are some interesting conclusions of the study:
- Many employees are dealing with intimate partner violence in their lives.
- It is not uncommon for IPV to occur on work premises.
- IPV has negative effects on employees and on work outcomes.
- IPV victims who need assistance seek help at work.
- Victims who disclose IPV at work generally feel more hopeful.
- Victims who feel hopeful display more positive attitudes and behaviors.
- Coworkers are “sympathetic but reluctant observers.”
Many may not readily see the connection between business results and domestic violence issues, but this program presents compelling evidence that businesses and organizations have a role to play if employees are suffering intimate partner violence.
I am impressed by our presenter's knowledge of the subject, his professionalism, and his passion for improving the lives of others. At the very least, this course has taught me that domestic violence in any form is nothing to be taken lightly and that I, as an employer, have the responsibility to become involved in situations where domestic violence may be occuring.
If you would like more information about this course or if you wish to be notified if we offer this course again, please visit our website.
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