Summertime Stress Leads to Domestic Violence

It is over 100 degrees outside at 6 p.m., the power just went out, the air conditioning shut off, the food in the fridge will spoil within the hour, your hair is plastered to the back of your neck by sweat, children are out of school and complaining, no fans, no television, no internet, no help.

This is a familiar scenario for many Central California residents during the most grueling summer months. Imagine adding a partner who is violent, and consumes excessive amounts of alcohol; these additional complications are what many more will experience during the coming summer months.

Every year there is a large spike in domestic violence incidents in the Central Valley. This is often due to the following reasons:

Increased Irritability – emotional tension brought on by heat can easily translate to outbursts and/or domestic violence issues
Alcohol and Social Events – during the warmer months the likelihood of social gatherings like; weddings, graduation parties, BBQ’s and other outdoor events bring a higher consumption of alcohol which lowers inhibitions and can lead to lack of judgment during tense situations.
Children Out of School – Interaction with children who are under-stimulated during school breaks can frustrate parents who are already taxed by work and other responsibilities.

“The Marjaree Mason center hits its peak in the summer months. June, July and August are the busiest time of the year. It costs us $75 per day to house an individual in our safe house, and on average they bring two children and stay with us for 31 days. These numbers add up and it puts an immense strain on our budget over the next few months”, said Genelle Taylor Kumpe, former Executive Director of the Marjaree Mason Center.

Staying safe, cool and out of dangerous situations this summer is a community effort. Report domestic violence incidents and reach out if you witness or are a victim of domestic violence. There is always help available at the Marjaree Mason Center. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, call our 24 hour confidential crisis hotline at 559.233.HELP (4357).

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