Thesis statement: There is a direct correlation between substance abuse and domestic violence. There are other contributors to this phenomenon such as unemployment, financial status, education level, and various mental issues.
Brief background
Common beliefs of the affect substance abuse has on domestic violence
Increases likeliness
Obstacle for victims to leave the situation
An “excuse”
Statistics
Percentage of domestic violence that occurs while the batter is intoxicated
Percentage of victims who have substance abuse issues
Percentage of domestic violence program directors who believe substance abuse affects domestic violence cases
Possibilities
Factors that can cause substance abuse to increase violence in individuals
Mental