When the words ‘domestic violence’ appeared, people often focus on women experiences and their intimate relationship. Apart from male domination to gain and control over woman, there could be many reasons behind why violence and abuse happened within domestic setting for e.g; jealousy, doubt, frustration, financial instability, using drugs or drinking alcohol etc.

Abusive acts always involve an imbalance of power, control and understanding relationship towards another. Sometimes, an abuser might use hurtful words, intimidating for a long period of time before his/her physical violent act.

Types of Domestic Violence

• Physical Abuse: Physical violence involves the use of force that causes bodily harm or injury. This can include hitting, slapping, punching, or any form of physical assault.

• Emotional and Psychological Abuse: Emotional abuse is characterized by behaviors that undermine an individual's self-worth, confidence, and mental well-being. This can include constant criticism, manipulation, and verbal attacks.

• Sexual Abuse: Sexual violence within a domestic setting involves any non-consensual sexual activity. This can range from coercion to forced sexual acts.

• Financial Abuse: Controlling finances and restricting access to economic resources is a form of abuse that can leave victims financially dependent and powerles

Victims of Domestic Violence

Anyone within the family can be a victim of domestic violence but women are much more likely than men to be the victims of severe domestic abuse.

Teenagers and young children are more likely to be subject to interpersonal violence. They are mostly abused by their parents who misused drugs and alcohol, and in some reason violence occurs due to social identity of being lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans (LGBT).

Violation between siblings or children abusing parents could be found in many countries which is more likely seen in a society where join-family or extended-family system are practices. In these cases children abuse their parents or grand-parents mentally and emotionally much rather than physical abuse. On the other hand, siblings abusing each other could be physical or mental mostly cause by miscommunication, lack of understanding, false expectation as well as misuse of drugs and alcohol.

Victim's Circumstances

In may cases victim choose to stay in the toxic environment while their best option is to escape their abuser. However, in many situation, abuser extremely prevent the victim from escaping. In fact, leaving the abuser could also be a dangerous attempt as most of the abuser used threats and trapped against the victim.

Many victims have no support from family and friends especially in financial and physical help. Lack of knowledge often leads to mix emotion of love and hope along with manipulation, intimidation and dread at the same time.

The victim could also have a strong feeling on religious or cultural beliefs and practices that forbid or not support separation, divorce which could sequel the traditions of their family in the society.

Social norms strap gender’s rights and identities disparage the feeling of self-worth and encouragement which leads to anxiety and decline in living standards.

Many victims may not realize that their situation is abnormal and toxic for mental and physical health because they have no other outlook and example of normal relationship and have gradually become accustomed to the cycle of violence.

Prevention of Domestic Violence

1. Education and Awareness
   • Implement educational programs in schools and communities to raise awareness about healthy relationships, consent, and conflict resolution.
   • Conduct campaigns to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and promote equality.
2. Early Intervention
   • Identify and address risk factors in families early on, such as substance abuse, mental health issues, and a history of violence.
   • Provide counseling and support services for at-risk individuals and families.
3. Promoting Healthy Relationship
   • Foster open communication and mutual respect in relationships from the beginning.
   • Encourage the development of positive relationship skills, including effective communication, empathy, and conflict resolution.
4. Financial Independence
   • Support programs that empower individuals, particularly women, to achieve financial independence. Financial control is often a tactic used in abusive relationships.
5. Community Support
   • Establish community-based support systems, including shelters and counseling services, to provide a safe haven for victims.
   • Encourage communities to actively condemn domestic violence and support survivors without stigmatization.
6. Men’s Engagement
   • Engage men and boys in the prevention of domestic violence through education and advocacy.
   • Encourage positive masculinity and challenge harmful stereotypes that contribute to violence.
7. Legal Measures
   • Strengthen and enforce legal measures to protect victims, such as restraining orders and legal consequences for perpetrators.
   • Ensure that the legal system is responsive to the needs of victims and provides effective support.
8. Crises Hotlines and Support Services
   • Ensure the availability and accessibility of crisis hotlines and support services for victims.
   • Promote these services through various channels to increase awareness and encourage utilization.

Preventing domestic violence is a complex task that requires sustained effort from individuals, communities, and institutions. By addressing the root causes, promoting awareness, and providing support, society can work towards creating environments where everyone.