Response to Kim’s answer
The level of success for the criminal & social services in responding to domestic violence is quite minimal. However, I agree that there is some notable improvement, and things are not as grim as they used to be in the past. Domestic violence was regarded as family affairs and, therefore, the victims did not receive the support they needed from a legal perspective (Stalans & Finn, 2006). Although it is presently recognized as a crime, the system is not able to fully handle the matter. There are numerous, victims who suffer silently primarily because they are in denial or are afraid making most of the cases go unreported and consequently unaddressed. To be more efficient, the criminal and social services must more aggressive in increasing awareness against the vice. They should also advocate for harsher punishments against those found guilty to deter others from engaging in domestic violence.
Response to Brandon’s answer
Domestic violence is a sensitive issue to handle both for the victim and for the perpetrator. I agree with your opinion that the general public needs to adopt a different approach towards the whole subject if we are to see better results. However, the culture that has been an operation for years has affected how people respond to the matter. Despite some people having an idea that some individual they know might be suffering from domestic violence, most people tend to avoid interfering with other people’s business. Involving all parties and concerned agencies is an important aspect of getting people first to know about domestic violence and also to know how to handle it in case it happens (Payne & Wermeling 2009). Some of the parties include community advocates, prosecutors, hospitals, social services and police.
References
Stalans, L. J.& Finn, M. A. (2006). Public's and police officers' interpretation and handling of domestic violence cases: divergent realities. Journal of Interpersonal Violence 21 (9) 1129-1155.
Payne D. & Wermeling L.(2009). Domestic Violence and the Female Victim: The Real Reason Women Stay! Journal of Multicultural, Gender and Minority Studies 3(1):1-6.
