On May 12th 2015, an article written by Dr Sallee McLaren was published in The Age; ‘The part women play in domestic violence’.
We wish to acknowledge that there is some controversy regarding the content of this article.
We also note that there may be a perceived connection with the views of the author and the views of the Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria, Inc. (ADAVIC), as Dr McLaren was previously an ADAVIC Committee member and has been a consultant psychologist for the organisation.
ADAVIC wishes to highlight that we receive professional advice, information, and opinion from a multitude of registered health professionals in our work. However, our organisational views and objectives are not necessarily influenced or reflected by one individual.
In this instance, whilst we respect the right of Dr McLaren to express her professional opinion, we make it known that the views expressed in Dr McLaren’s article are not the views of ADAVIC.
Members of the community have contacted ADAVIC to express their dissatisfaction with the article, as they see it as attributing blame to the victims of the domestic violence. ADAVIC has a clear position on this issue: we do not condone “victim blaming” in cases of domestic violence. ADAVIC is a community-based organisation which works hard to provide support and information for the general public, and to empower and resource individuals to overcome difficult life situations. We see encouragement and support as fundamental to this aim.
ADAVIC highlights the following organisations for anyone experiencing or impacted by Domestic or Family Violence, Anxiety, Depression or any related Mental Health concerns:
1. Domestic Violence Victoria – 03 9921 0828
2. Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline – 1800 007 339
3. Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline - 1800 000 599
4. WIRE (Women’s Information and Referral Exchange) - 1300 134 130
5. LifeLine – 13 11 14
6. BeyondBlue – 1300 22 4636
Sincerely,
ADAVIC Committee