Thoughts on measures to combat domestic violence
It is essential to develop counter measures to deal with the development of domestic violence. Educating the community on effective measures to combat this issue is arguably the most basic yet effective measure. Precisely, education should be issued on how to determine actions that could lead to this crime. Additionally, a good communication channel should be established to make it easier for the victims to report their distress. This can be achieved through the development of an organization aimed at eradicating this issue. The organization can make a follow up on the victims’ families to determine the impact of the violence on children and other family members. Finally, proper documentations should be developed within the community to monitor the progress of the initiatives implemented within the community. In case the records prove the measures taken are inefficient, better initiatives should be implemented.
Social stigma associated with domestic violence between genders
According to the United Nation Population Fund, at least one in every three women around the globe has been abused in some way, beaten, or coerced into sex by people they know (Gerdes 183). However, out of this population, less than 25 percent confide in other people for fear of stigmatization and negative perception. In most cases, the stigma develops from the personal responsibilities one feels they have towards their spouse. For instance, women find it difficult leaving their abusive spouses, as they feel insubordinate to them. In some cases, the fear of rejection by the community members makes it almost impossible for the affected to speak about their marital issues. According to Johnson (158), there is more stigma inclined towards the male gender as opposed to females. Precisely, men find it difficult to communicate their positions to other parties for fear of losing their male pride and stigmatization. As a result, there is social stigma between genders in domestic violence.
Societal issues associated with the people involved
Aside from the physical impacts associated with the batterer and the domestic violence victim, it is essential to note that children are equally affected psychologically by witnessing the kind of treatment issued to either of their parents. In most case, they feel isolated and uncared for. This negatively affects their growth and overall life perception. Their socialization is affected and they tend to be more introversive. According to Gerdes (163), people who encounter cases of domestic violence in their childhood are greatly affected by these memories in their adulthood. Precisely, they are more likely to be involved in this problem as opposed to those who did not experience the same. On the other hand, cognitive problems might emerge among female children making them change their perspectives towards men.
Other forms of domestic violence
Domestic violence is not purely associated with physical abuse. Psychological torture qualifies to be termed as domestic violence. Johnson argues that attempting to, or instilling fear in one’s spouse is domestic violence (138). Additionally, isolating one’s marital partner from their families and friends by withholding communication devices or limiting their movements is another form of domestic violence. Causing emotional trauma by undermining a spouse’s sense of worth through constant criticism, verbal insulations, inducing guilt or jeopardizing a spouse’s relationship with their children can be referred to as domestic violence. Making an attempt to make one financially dependent by ceasing control of their money and belongings is another form of this crime. Finally, stalking one’s spouse with malicious intent is domestic violence.
Works Cited
Gerdes, Louise I. Domestic Violence. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2012. Print.
Johnson, Michael P. A Typology of Domestic Violence. Boston: Northeastern University Press, 2008. Print.
