Domestic violence awareness: A look inside prisons

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize and support the millions of people affected by domestic violence each year. Domestic violence knows no boundaries — it impacts people of all backgrounds, ages, and communities. But one group that often gets overlooked in this conversation is the incarcerated population. It's essential to acknowledge that domestic violence and incarceration are closely connected, and raising awareness in correctional settings can play a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of violence.

The statistics paint a troubling picture. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than half of incarcerated men and women report having experienced trauma before entering prison, often from violent relationships or childhood abuse. Furthermore, research shows that incarcerated individuals are disproportionately more likely to have been victims or perpetrators of domestic violence in their lifetime (BJS, 2016). When we ignore this reality, we overlook a crucial opportunity to help individuals change their lives and stop the ripple effects of violence.

So, what does this mean during Domestic Violence Awareness Month? It means taking a closer look at how we can support incarcerated individuals—many of whom have been both victims and perpetrators—by providing resources, education, and opportunities for healing and change.
‍

The Impact of Domestic Violence in Correctional Settings

Domestic violence not only devastates the lives of victims, but it also influences behaviors that can lead to incarceration. For those who’ve been harmed, trauma often shapes their choices and coping mechanisms, contributing to mental health issues, substance abuse, and in some cases, criminal behavior. Conversely, those who have perpetrated domestic violence may never have had access to programs that encourage self-reflection and transformation, creating a cycle of violence that continues long after their release.

The sad truth is that without proper intervention and support, incarceration often exacerbates trauma. This is why having resources that focus on understanding and preventing domestic violence is so critical in these settings. It’s not just about punitive measures—it’s about offering meaningful opportunities for growth, recovery, and a safer future for both victims and offenders.

Breaking the Cycle

Edovo believes that everyone deserves a chance to live in healthy, violence-free relationships. That’s why we’re committed to providing high-quality resources and courses that focus on understanding, preventing, and transforming behaviors related to domestic violence. Our goal is to empower incarcerated people to break the cycle of violence, whether they’ve been harmed or have caused harm themselves. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond, we’re proud to offer a range of impactful programs on our platform:

PREP’s Domestic Violence Course

One of our cornerstone resources is PREP’s Domestic Violence course. This course is designed to educate participants about what domestic violence is, how it impacts victims, and what steps can be taken to prevent it. The goal is not only to raise awareness but also to equip individuals with strategies to build safer, healthier relationships once they return to their communities. This is especially important for those who may not have received formal education or guidance about healthy relationships in the past.

64 Days of Nonviolence

We also offer the “64 Days of Nonviolence” campaign, inspired by the M.K. Gandhi Institute of Nonviolence and produced by Compassion Prison Project. This program runs from January 30th through April 4th each year, honoring the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Each day during this campaign, we highlight a new way of practicing nonviolence, focusing on both direct and passive forms of violence.

While physical violence is the most visible form, passive violence—including discrimination, negative self-talk, and suppression—can be just as harmful. The “64 Days of Nonviolence” encourages participants to look inward and address how they can build habits of nonviolence in all aspects of their lives. By cultivating empathy, respect, and self-awareness, we help individuals develop the tools they need to break away from harmful patterns and live in peace.

The Transformation Journey

For individuals who have caused harm and want to change, we offer “The Transformation Journey.” This course is designed specifically for those convicted of domestic violence and provides them with a structured path toward understanding their behaviors and making positive changes. This isn’t about shaming or blame—it’s about giving people the tools they need to build healthier relationships and become agents of positive change. It’s never too late to transform, and this course serves as a first step for many on that path.

Partnering with Saprea for Survivor Support

In addition to content for those who have perpetrated domestic violence, we’re also proud to announce a new partnership with Saprea to bring an original course for survivors of domestic violence to the Edovo platform. This course will provide essential support, resources, and guidance for individuals who have experienced abuse, helping them rebuild their confidence, learn new coping strategies, and start their own journey of healing. Survivors deserve a space to process their experiences, find support, and take steps toward recovery—and we’re honored to provide that space.

The Path Forward

Domestic violence is not a one-sided issue. To truly break the cycle, we must address both those who have been harmed and those who have caused harm. With compassionate education, a focus on prevention, and support for personal transformation, we can reduce recidivism, help individuals heal, and create safer communities for everyone.
‍

If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence, support is available. Breaking the cycle starts with awareness, education, and the courage to take the first step toward change.

Let’s use Domestic Violence Awareness Month as a reminder that everyone—no matter their past—deserves a chance to build a life free from violence. At Edovo, we’re committed to making that vision a reality, not just in October, but every single day of the year.

‍