Prevention
CCADV works with its member programs to strengthen Connecticut’s response to domestic violence. While we have intervention programs that address the effects of domestic violence after it occurs, we consider the prevention of domestic violence to be the first step towards stopping domestic violence before it starts. The CCADV Prevention Team supports the activities of our member programs as they work within their communities to engage others in preventing domestic violence.
Our primary prevention activities are directed at the general population, or a subset of the general population, and are designed to actively promote healthy, non-violent relationships. We know that strategies that promote healthy behaviors in relationships are important. Programs that focus on teaching young people skills for dating can help prevent violence. Primary prevention seeks to reduce the overall likelihood that anyone will become a victim or a perpetrator by creating conditions that make violence less likely to occur. It requires true and significant social change: a shifting of people’s attitudes and beliefs order to shape a positive outcome.
Whether it be a men's engagement project, a school based violence is preventable program, or a media campaign, CCADV works actively to reduce a participants’ risk factors (which increase the likelihood of violent behavior or vulnerability to violent behavior) and/or increase participants’ protective factors (which decrease the likelihood of violent behavior/vulnerability to it).
Click here for a listing of prevention activities throughout the state.