If you suspect a student is involved in domestic violence, where should you refer them first?

Referring a student suspected of being involved in domestic violence to the Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is appropriate as it is specifically designed to provide support and resources related to domestic violence and similar issues. The FAP offers a range of services including counseling, intervention, and education aimed at addressing domestic violence within military families.

By directing the student to the FAP, you ensure that they receive specialized help from trained professionals who understand the complexities of domestic violence situations and can provide tailored support. The services offered by this program focus on the emotional and physical safety of individuals involved, making it the most relevant and effective option for addressing their needs.

Other options may provide support but do not specialize in handling domestic violence issues to the same extent as the Family Advocacy Program. For example, the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) primarily handles personnel administration rather than social issues, while legal counsel is focused on legal matters and may not provide the immediate emotional or psychological support needed. A school counselor can offer general support, but they may not have the specialized training or resources to adequately address domestic violence as effectively as the FAP can.