Submitted by Yardbroom
My attention was drawn to a report in the Nation News by Julia Rawlins-Bentham 8-18-2009; in which she stated that a survey on Domestic Violence by the Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES) will be made known later this week. Perhaps it is unwise to write a submission before statistics are available, as the opinions formed could be undermined by the survey. However, I have taken the view that domestic violence is not country specific and have used statistics available in England as necessary. With or without a survey domestic violence is always topical, and regardless of any information gained from the survey or decisions taken as a result…domestic violence is likely to be with us for a long time.
It has been said that: “one in four women will suffer domestic violence and one in six men.” (National Centre for domestic violence:UK) I would add a note of caution in interpreting these figures as no indication was given of the degree of violence which had to be used before the violence became part of the statistics…although some might say that is not a necessary pre-requisite.
In this submission how is Domestic Violence characterised:…” it is a pattern of repeated abuse by the same perpetrator. Its only when repeated incidents are reported and recorded that a complete picture of the extent of domestic abuse becomes more evident. Also, many victims of domestic violence are reluctant to disclose the abuse they experienced in face to face interviews”… (Jackie Barron, Research & Policy Officer at Womens Aid)
“Criminologist (1) Estimate that domestic violence statistics are 140% higher than those stated in the British Crime Survey which only records a maximum of five crimes per person.”
The vast majority of perpetrators of domestic violence are men, who deliberately use abusive behaviour to control their partners and former partners. Without labouring the point men can and are also abused.
Although I have focused on Domestic Violence, brevity dictates only a short mention can be made of “domestic abuse,” sexual abuse I will address later.
“Domestic violence is a hidden crime why?
(1) Partners or ex-partners may be frightened.
(2) They may think it was a one-off event.
(3) They may feel they were to blame.
(4) They might feel ashamed.”
Due to the above they are likely to experience repeated attacks.
Almost everyone has a view on Domestic Violence and the general public is often severe in its condemnation of the victim. “Why doesn’t she just leave him? Why does he put up with that? What they fail to understand is that those who live amidst verbal, physical, psychological abuse is what binds them to the abusive relationship…how do you end the cycle of abuse. The abused partner must be able to identify their options and find workable solutions.”
Some of the effective strategies advanced for breaking the cycle are:
(a) Figuring out if you can fix the relationship, change it, make it better.
(b) Decoding if you should end the relationship, leave your partner.
(c) How can you exit to ensure your long-term safety and well being.
In exiting a relationship for some ethnic groups, the problems seem almost insurmountable. Religious and cultural pressures or being afraid of rejection from their own community, if they disclose the abuse or ask for help. They can be censored within the community if they contact the Police. It is incumbent on the various support agencies to understand the “dynamics” involved when Religious and Cultural issues must considered but…sensitivity does not mean an abdication of their duties.
For those who with a touch of arrogance are tempted to say that sort of behaviour does not affect our class. “Evidence would suggest that domestic violence is spread rather evenly through many societies, and is not a respecter of social positions, educational achievement or religious faith.”
How are children affected by domestic violence/abuse?
“The majority of children witness the violence that is occurring, and in 90% of cases they are in the same or next room” (Hughes, 1992). Children can witness the abuse in many ways, caught in the middle of an incident, “hear the abuse” see their mothers physical injuries, following violence not allowed to play”. As a result they can experience both short and long term cognitive behavioural and emotional effects.”
I have mentioned the physical injuries children can see, but what about the changes in their household which are also evident as a result of “Domestic Abuse” and “Sexual Abuse”. The undermining of self-esteem, constant unfavourable comparison with others, be it dress, financial management, social behaviour, background, physical appearance, or a lack of educational attainment. Some or all of these factors can cause behavioural changes which can lead to an unhappy emotional state.
Perhaps more extreme – some might disagree – is “sexual abuse which is often a component of Domestic Violence for example; partners and former partners may use force, threats or intimidation to engage in sexual activity, they may taunt or use degrading treatment related to sexuality, force the use of pornography, or force their partner to have sex with other people. Rape and sexual assault are crimes, whether or not they take place within marriage or between partners or ex-partners.”
In professional circles shame, financial constraints, and a loss of personal standing keeps women in check and prevents the seeking of assistance. It is of major importance therefore for Law enforcement agencies to use “sensitivity” to those brave enough to come forward seeking assistance. They should also take cognizance of the “dynamics” involved in Domestic Violence and thus ensure that support mechanisms are quickly engaged.
It is by quick and diligent action the cycle can be broken, and the silent voices of anguish will be listened to, when they have summoned the courage to speak.
The blogmaster invites you to join the discussion.