One of the most common myths about domestic violence is that alcohol and drugs are the root cause of abusive behavior. While substance use can escalate the severity of violence or make incidents more frequent, it’s crucial to understand that Read More
Blog
The Role of Power and Control in Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is often misunderstood. Many believe it happens because of anger, stress, or external factors like substance use. However, at its core, domestic violence is about power and control. The person causing harm seeks to dominate their Read More
Why Non-Glamorous Volunteering Matters
When you think of volunteering at RESPOND, you might picture hands-on, front-line roles—helping at events or directly interacting with those in need. While these are important, there’s another side of volunteering that often goes unnoticed: the Read More
The Women History Classes Forgot to Mention
The Women History Classes Forgot to Mention When we think of history’s most influential figures, we often hear about politicians, scientists, and activists who made sweeping changes. However, the subject of domestic violence is often overlooked Read More
The Origins of the Term ‘Gaslighting’
You’ve probably heard the term “gaslighting” in recent years—it has become a go-to word for describing a specific kind of manipulation, one that makes someone question their own perception of reality. But where did this term actually come from? A Read More
Honoring Black Leaders & Their Ongoing Efforts to End Domestic Violence
As we observe Black History Month (BHM) in 2025 under the theme "African Americans and Labor," we take a moment to honor and reflect on the incredible contributions of Black leaders who have made a lasting impact in many fields, including the ongoing Read More
The Healing Power of Art Therapy: A Path to Healing Through Creativity
Art therapy is not just about an outcome – it’s about the process. Through the creative process, individuals can express difficult emotions, process trauma, and find empowerment. Whether through painting, drawing, or making collages, art therapy Read More
Love Bombing in Rom-Coms: When Grand Gestures Are Actually Red Flags
Romantic comedies have long been a beloved genre, offering humor and heartwarming moments. But beneath the charm and swoon-worthy confessions, many rom-coms glorify behaviors that, in real life, can be signs of coercive control. One of the most Read More
Reclaiming Valentine’s Day: Celebrating Love in All Forms
Traditionally, Valentine’s Day emphasizes grand romantic gestures, candlelit dinners, and heart-shaped everything. While there’s nothing wrong with celebrating romantic love, this narrow focus can leave many people feeling excluded, whether they’re Read More