The purpose of this presentation is to present a review of research literature related to the incidence of domestic violence in the workplace, to examine interventions that are currently in place to decrease domestic violence in the workplace, and to examine the effectiveness of mandatory reporting laws in those states requiring the reporting of adult domestic violence. Domestic violence is epidemic in the United States. The human and dollar cost of domestic violence is huge, including costs to employers. The number of women in the U.S.workplace is at the highest level ever. Women are five times more likely than men to be attacked by an intimate partner at work; and the financial cost of domestic violence (reduced productivity, staff turnover, increased health care costs) is estimated at 3 to 5 billion dollars per year. Ten to 19% of workplace homicides are caused by a husband, boyfriend or ex. Co-workers of victims are also negatively affected by the violence, especially if they witness a beating or homicide. Some companies and businesses have begun to provide assistance for domestic violence victims. These employer programs will be discussed. Finally, every state has a mandatory reporting law for child abuse, elder abuse and abuse of the disabled, however, very few states have a mandatory reporting law for the purpose of protecting adults who are suffering from abuse, neglect, or exploitation as a result of domestic violence. The effectiveness of these laws and how they are utilized by the workplace will be presented.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe factors that contribute to domestic violence in the workplace. 2. Discuss programs that effectively address domestic violence in the workplace.
Keywords: Domestic Violence, Occupational Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.