DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PART 2

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 

Before we delve into the topic "domestic violence” it is important to know what violence entails. Violence is the act of using force ( physical, power, influence) on another person or a group, to achieve a particular interest, which mostly results in injury, death, psychological harm e.t.c. Violence can take many forms, physical assault, verbal abuse, emotional manipulation. 

Now what is Domestic violence? Domestic violence specifically refers to violence that occurs within the home or family setting, typically between intimate partners but also potentially involving children, elders, or other family members. It becomes “domestic” when the violent behaviors are directed toward individuals with whom the perpetrator has a close personal relationship, such as: 

- Intimate Partner Violence: Between current or former spouses or partners. 

- Child Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse directed toward a child by a parent, guardian, or other caregiver. 

-Elder Abuse: Harmful acts toward an elderly family member, which can include physical, emotional, or financial abuse. 

-Sibling Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse among siblings. 

PREVENTING OR STOPPING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 

Stopping domestic violence requires a comprehensive approach that includes legal, social, educational, and community-based strategies. However stopping domestic violence can be difficult at times due to the victims not speaking up, but Here are some key measures to consider: 

1. Strengthening Legal Protections

2. Support Services for Victims 

3. Education and Awareness 

4. Community Involvement 

5. Support for Perpetrators :Offer rehabilitation and counseling programs for abusers, Promote accountability and change through court-mandated programs Domestic violence is a very difficult issue to deal with, in most cases victims suffer in silence while the perpetrators cause more havoc, it gets so bad at times, it becomes a circle where the previous victim becomes a new perpetrator. And we also have religious leaders/traditional beliefs that encourage victims to remain in an abusive relationship, which sometimes turn out in death or psychological damage to the victims. 

Dear reader let this be a motivation for you, speak up, talk to someone or you can make a report for a victim. Your life should be led by you, no one has the right to hijack it or make it miserable for you.

Written by: Okikiola-Fafiolu

Organisation: Fadaka Olufunke Foundation