Strained finances from layoffs

The uncertainty, confusion and anxiety around the pandemic could cause abusive behaviors to arise or escalate. The layoffs and loss of income could also create even more barriers for victims to get out. It was reported in April 2020, that more than 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment aid, according to The Washington Post.^[1] The United States has not seen this level of job loss since the Great Depression, and the government is struggling to respond fast enough to the deadly COVID-19 health crisis and the widespread economic pain it has triggered.^[2] Domestic violence is three times more likely to occur when couples are experiencing high levels of financial strain. According to a recent study by The National Network to End Domestic Violence, in a relationship where domestic violence is already present, financial problems can exacerbate the abuse and contribute to an increase in the severity and frequency of the abuse.^[3]

[P1] Work layoffs can create stress and strain a household, which can bring up or escalate domestic violence.