Description

Breaking the Silence: The Truth About Domestic Violence by Josiah Cornell offers a clear and comprehensive examination of one of society's most pervasive yet often hidden issues. Drawing on extensive experience within the justice system, prisons, and domestic violence support services, Cornell presents an informed and grounded exploration of the realities faced by survivors and the systemic challenges that allow abuse to persist.

The book highlights the lived experiences of individuals affected by domestic violence, presenting their stories alongside an analysis of the behaviours and patterns exhibited by perpetrators. Cornell addresses the structural and cultural factors that contribute to cycles of abuse, including coercive control, trauma bonding, economic manipulation, technology-facilitated abuse, honour-based violence, female genital mutilation, and post-separation harm.

Rather than focusing on the question "Why didn't they leave?", Cornell encourages readers to consider the more complex dynamics that keep victims trapped. Through this shift in perspective, the book aims to deepen understanding and promote more effective responses to domestic violence.

Breaking the Silence also offers practical insights into recovery and support, outlining strategies that can assist survivors in rebuilding their lives. The narrative combines research, professional insight, and survivor testimony to provide a balanced and accessible resource.

This book is relevant to professionals working in social care, education, law, mental health, safeguarding, and healthcare, as well as to survivors and community members seeking to better understand the realities of domestic abuse. It serves as both an informative overview and a call to engage more openly with the issues surrounding domestic violence.