Allegations of domestic violence against Congressman Max Miller, which he denies, have brought renewed attention to persistent myths and stereotypes about intimate partner abuse. NPR's Michel Martin spoke with author Leslie Morgan Steiner, who has written extensively on the subject, to discuss misconceptions that often surround discussions of domestic violence.
Steiner is the editor of "Crazy Love: The Revolutionary Way to Care for Yourself and Your Family," a collection of personal essays from survivors of domestic violence. Her own experience leaving an abusive relationship gave her insight into why victims often face skepticism when they speak out about abuse.
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative commentators and family advocacy groups agree that domestic violence is a serious issue but emphasize the importance of due process when allegations involve public figures. They argue that accusations alone should not determine public judgment before facts are established.
The Family Research Council has noted that public discourse around high-profile cases can sometimes rush to judgment. Spokesperson Emma Foley stated that "our justice system exists precisely to separate fact from fiction, and we must allow it to work without political pressure."
Some Republican legislators have focused on strengthening law enforcement training for domestic violence calls. Representative Jim Himes has supported grants for police departments to improve response protocols, emphasizing victim safety while ensuring accused individuals retain their rights.
What the Left Is Saying
Victim advocates and progressive organizations argue that myths surrounding domestic violence contribute to a systemic failure in how cases are handled by law enforcement and courts. Studies from the National Network to End Domestic Violence emphasize that stereotypes—such as the idea that victims can simply leave their abusers—ignore the complex financial, emotional, and physical barriers survivors face.
Steiner told NPR that one of the most persistent myths is that victims must not have loved their abusers or would have left earlier if the situation was truly dangerous. She noted that abuse often intensifies when victims attempt to leave, making departure the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship. "The moment a victim tries to leave is statistically the most lethal period," she said.
Progressive lawmakers have pushed for increased funding for domestic violence shelters and legal resources. Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representative Brenda Lawrence have championed legislation expanding access to protective orders across state lines.
What the Numbers Show
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe physical violence from an intimate partner at some point in their lives. The CDC reports that intimate partner violence accounts for approximately 15% of all violent crime in the United States.
Research published in the Journal of Family Violence indicates that victims attempt to leave an abusive partner an average of seven times before successfully departing. Financial dependence, fear of retaliation, and lack of safe housing are cited as primary barriers.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that domestic violence costs the U.S. economy approximately $12.6 billion annually in medical care, lost productivity, and criminal justice expenses. Only about 34% of victims ever receive civil protection orders due to barriers including cost, fear, and lack of legal knowledge.
The Bottom Line
The conversation around Congressman Miller's allegations has opened broader discussion about how society understands domestic violence. Experts emphasize that misconceptions can prevent victims from seeking help and affect how courts evaluate cases.
Steiner's interview highlights ongoing efforts by advocates to educate the public about the realities of abusive relationships. Both victim advocates and law enforcement professionals agree that increased awareness and better training remain priorities in addressing intimate partner violence.