Survey: Economic Troubles Lead to Spike in Domestic Abuse Nationwide

The troubled economy is hurting women across the country in a very real sense — leading to a spike in domestic violence, according to a new survey done by cosmetics giant Mary Kay Inc.

About 73 percent of victims attribute the abuse to "financial issues," according to "Mary Kay's Truth About Abuse" survey of 600 domestic violence shelters across the country.

Another 61 percent name "stress" as the cause of violence at home, and 49 percent mention "job loss."

"The economic downturn is exacerbating domestic violence," Sue Else, president of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, said in a press release issued by Mary Kay. "The demand for domestic violence services is growing."

Else said it's important to increase support for victims during the economic downturn. She urged other corporations to "follow Mary Kay's lead" in the fight to end such violence within families.