This informational booklet was written by Dr. Mable Dunbar. Her Ph.D. is in family mediation and she is a licensed professional counselor, certified cognitive/behavioral therapist, certified domestic violence counselor, and a crisis intervention specialist. The purpose of this booklet is to:

1. Inform of the dynamics of domestic violence, including characteristics of couples in abusive relationships, facts and forms of abuse,

2. Share some of the social dynamics and foundational elements that perpetuate domestic violence and abuse in homes,

3. Build on, define and refine policies and procedures that can help our communities appropriately and effectively assist victims as well as perpetrators who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence and abuse,

4. Encourage community members to continue being positive role models for future generations and advocating for and maintaining healthy family systems that can help to prevent the intergenerational cycle of abuse.