Micronesian Counselor, Issue 46

Hezel, Francis X. (2003-03-03). Micronesian Counselor, Issue 46. Micronesian Counselor (Report). Kolonia, Pohnpei: Micronesian Seminar. pp. 1–8.

• Has attachment: File:D2IFDCAL.pdf

Abstract: The lead article, Spouse Abuse in Micronesia: The Silent Cry for Help, by Eugenia Samuel, documents cases of domestic violence in island communities. It describes a violent assault on a wife in Pohnpei witnessed by neighbors, using it to illustrate the fear and isolation women often face. The article emphasizes the lack of protective services and the reluctance of victims to seek formal help due to stigma and family pressures.

Additional discussion includes accounts of battered women in Chuuk and Kosrae, comments from health staff in Yap, and police reports from the Marshall Islands that reveal patterns of underreporting. The issue also notes responses from church leaders and women’s groups, outlining early efforts to provide counseling, shelters, and advocacy against family violence.