Preventing Abuse and Neglect

The Family Advocacy Program is the Defense Department program designated to address child abuse and neglect and domestic abuse. FAP supports service members and their spouses, partners and families to prevent abuse, promote victim safety and offer treatment and rehabilitation for healing after a traumatic event has occurred.

• Family Advocacy Program

Learn about additional options for getting help.

FAP promotes nurturing and healthy environments for children and youth through services such as educational groups and classes, comprehensive assessments, counseling and coordination with other providers or agencies, as needed. When a child is the victim of an adult-initiated incident of abuse, a parent may also receive advocate services and counseling.

Relationships can sometimes be unhealthy or even abusive. But domestic abuse victim advocates with FAP can help those impacted by abuse. They can explain the options for reporting abuse, assess for risk, develop safety plans and link to other resources. Depending on the situation, this may include counseling and emotional support, emergency support services, and housing or financial and legal assistance.

FAP assessments, counseling and other services are designed to stop unhealthy or abusive behaviors and promote strong relationships. FAP support is available to beneficiary and nonbeneficiary intimate partners to ensure they receive continued care.

• Domestic Abuse Military Reporting Options
• Domestic Violence in the Military (written with the National Network to End Domestic Violence)