Abuse Link Info

The Link Between Abuse of Animals and Humans

Studies have shown consistent patterns of animal abuse among perpetrators of child abuse, spousal abuse, and elder abuse. In a study of families where child abuse was reported, 88% of the abusers also hurt animals. In 1/3 of these homes, the children were abusive to animals. Children who abuse animals are more likely to commit violent acts against humans later in life. Almost every serial killer in recent times has confessed that they started out by torturing and killing animals.

The most common form of animal abuse is animal fighting.  Dog fights and rooster fights affect not just the animals, but whole communities.  Along with the pain, suffering and slow death that the animals endure, animal fighting is closely linked to weapons, gambling, drugs and gang activity.

Whether a person is hurting animals, or has already moved on to abusing children, their spouse, or elderly parents, most abusers fit the following description:

• Abusers may come from any economic, educational, social, gender, religious and ethnic backgrounds.
• Abusers have aggressive, impulsive, and controlling personalities. They are usually very defensive, and cannot take criticism. This is a mask for low self-esteem, and lack of confidence.
• Abusers are often highly narcissistic, meaning they feel like the world revolves around them, and that they are owed something.
• There is often a large discrepancy between how an abuser sees him or herself, and how s/he is seen by others. For example, a person may be fired from a job because of laziness and poor work quality, but will insist that they did all the work and someone was out to get them.
• Abusers get angry very quickly, and may exhibit rage with only the slightest provocation.
• The abuser’s lack of confidence leads him to constantly feel disrespected, or to take offense at things that were never meant to concern him.
• Abusive relationships are cyclical. A person who has grown up with violence is more likely to be violent.
• Abusive personalities get angry and frustrated, where others feel guilty or embarrassed.

 
Specifically regarding animal abusers:

• They generally feel that they have very little going for them, and are entitled to do whatever it takes to get what they want.
• Abusers need to feel control and power. They cannot control their own life or family, so they control animals that cannot defend themselves.
• Children who abuse animals are probably experiencing some form of abuse in their own life.
• People may abuse animals for the shock value, or to impress others with their lack of empathy.
• Abusers use animals to hurt the people around them. It is the easiest way to instill fear and control.
• People who abuse animals at a young age are more likely to engage in violent crime as adults.
• People who abuse animals are much more likely to abuse their spouses, children, and elderly parents.

Abusers need help learning to deal with their emotions and take responsibility for their actions.  If someone is abusing you, someone you know or an animal, get help.  Call 911 to report abuse in progress or 311 for all other abuse related inquiries.

Remember, abuse is a crime and there is no excuse.