Over the years, there has been media attention surrounding the possible link of Super Bowl Sunday and an increase in domestic violence incidents. This possible link first hit the airwaves in 1993 when advocates made seemingly innocuous statements to the press about a possible increase of battering on Super Bowl Sunday.
Following the comment, the Washington Post ran a front page story by reporter Ken Ringle entitled Debunking the 'Day of Dread' for Women which quoted a number of experts and battered women's advocates who said there was no discernible increase in battering on Super Bowl Sunday or on any day when football games are played. Some of those interviewed claimed that Ringle had taken their comments out of context.
In addition, NBC showed a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) on the crime of domestic violence during its coverage of the game. [Since the newest and most innovative ads are traditionally premiered during the Super Bowl, the network could easily have sold this coveted pre-game spot for approximately a half million dollars but aired the PSA instead.]
The following information may help you decide for yourself whether there is an increase in domestic violence on Super Bowl Sunday.
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