Causes of Domestic Violence - Essay Example

The people who suffer most are the children who watch those heinous acts and as parents divorce. An in-depth analysis of domestic violence is therefore required to establish the causes, effects, and how to help the victims cope after the act.

Background of Domestic Violence

             Traditionally, wife beating was a sign of love and respect in society (Jaffe, 2006). It was a normal practice hence the authorities could not intervene when a wife was being beaten. Men were also endowed with all resources hence power over women. Domestic violence can be classified as physical, emotional, sexual, economic, and psychological violence but all forms of violence have an element of control. Johnson (2008) argues that there is a relationship between gender and domestic violence. Men are muscular and hence inflict greater harm on women than women do on men and hence domestic violence is considered a women’s problem (Davis, 2006). Men are supposed to provide for and protect the family against enemies hence it is intimidating for a man to be abused by his wife and therefore would rather suffer silently. They don’t report the incidences hence statistics show that only a few men are battered by their wives.

Causes of Domestic Violence

            Domestic violence can be a result of economic dependence, psychological disorders, drug, and alcohol abuse, or due to cultural influence.  Schwartz (2004) observes that women who depend on men for survival are at risk of economic violence. Any behavior against a man’s wish is punished by denial of financial assistance. Psychological disorders are known to aggravate the occurrence of domestic violence especially when combined with drug and alcohol abuse. People who suffer from this disorder are unable to control their emotions such as anger and hence a slight provocation leads to violence (Jaffe, 2006).  Some women also lack proper defense mechanisms and hence cause severe harm to their husbands when they get a chance to apprehend them due to prolonged anger (Bancroft, 2003). Culture plays a vital role in aggravating domestic violence. Wife beating was a norm meant for men to show their superiority, and love, and gain respect in society (Jaffe, 2006). However, some cultures have moved on and no longer victimize women. Modernity has enlightened women about their rights against such malpractices. Boys and girls were socialized into believing wife battery was normal by observing its prevalence in society and hence becoming violent in adulthood (Straus, 1992).

Effects of Domestic Violence

            There are many effects associated with domestic violence which include; death, disabilities, health and behavioral problems, sexual abuse effects, and mental problems. The Bureau of justice statistics (2003) showed that in the year 2000, homicides accounted for 30% of women and 5%men. Most homicides occur where there are weapons and drug abuse (Jaffe, 2006). Physical abuse results in injuries and may also lead to disabilities if the injury is severe. Children’s education is affected due to low retention, some become drug users, problems with eating, sleeping, and aggression. Sexual violence results in a chain of effects. Both the victim and the perpetrator are also at risk of infection with sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancies, abortion, and miscarriage. The victim may suffer mental problems after a prolonged period of violence especially if one keeps to himself/herself.

Role of Organizations in Alleviating the Vice

             The government must design and enforce laws against domestic violence through the justice system and security forces and empower women by involving them in administration so that their voices can be heard (Mills, 2003). Religious organizations are at the forefront of educating people on good morals through seminars and workshops. The society also has a great role in undoing the past. It should educate people, especially the youth that wife battering is a social menace and socialize children into becoming responsible adults. Cases of violence should be everyone’s business to report to the authorities to weed out the vice.

The Future of Domestic Violence

            The future of domestic violence lies in the ability to provide equal opportunities to men and women and remove inequalities that cause violence. It also requires strengthening legal protection for victims and strict penalties for offenders so that they set an example for others. Offering support to victims and reporting incidences can go a long way in eliminating the menace. Proper treatment should be sought for victims to reduce death incidences.

Conclusion

            Domestic violence is a serious problem in society and a common cause of injuries in households and women are the most affected. The Bureau of Justice statistics reveal that among those abused, 85% are women mostly those who are poor and depend on their men for survival. The violence occurs in the form of battery, sexual abuse, insulting, and neglecting a spouse. Domestic violence is caused by; drug/alcohol abuse, economic dependency, and socialization among others. The children who witness the act are traumatized and suffer behavioral problems in the future. They also suffer when their parents separate. Society should therefore come together and eliminate this vice by reporting offenders, empowering women, and ensuring gender equality.