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Domestic Violence

Updated: Feb 5, 2022

Author: Jena Chai

Domestic violence. We’ve all heard about it; some have even experienced it. Whether it be on the news, educational programs, on the internet or social media, it is a fear that dwells deep in our minds. Domestic violence has been featured in fictional pieces, such as books, films or plays, but the reality of it is much more horrific. Despite this, a certain stigma still remains around it.

Although we may see many red flags - bruises, scars and emotional distress – we tend to ignore them. The victims themselves deny it, covering their injuries with believable excuses: falling down the stairs, tripping over a rock and the like.



Victims usually remain under the radar due to social stigma. They are ashamed to admit that they have remained in an abusive relationship or are scared of judgement from others. They would rather avoid discussing it and revealing details, even if this is harshly affecting their wellbeing. This behaviour is quite endangering for the victim; their not only physical but mental health declines, and they feel trapped from the outside world.

The facts:

- 1 in 3, or 736 million women worldwide are subjected to either physical or sexual violence

- Roughly 38% of all murders towards women are perpetrated by intimate partners

- COVID-19 has resulted in increased exposure of women to abusive partners and limited their access to help services

- Young women aged 15-24 years old are at the highest risk of domestic violence – 16% have experienced domestic violence in a relationship

- 1 in 12 men have experienced intimate partner violence



5 Steps to Stop Domestic Violence

1. Educate yourself.

Learn warning sign of upcoming violence, such as excessive jealousy, embarrassment, controlling decisions, finances etc.; guilt-tripping and intimidation – especially with physical objects.


2. Ignorance is not bliss.

If you have witnessed or experienced any domestic violence, do not ignore it. Report it to the police or call a helpline*.


3. Listen.

Lend an ear to anyone wanting to share their experiences with you. Believe them and offer them as much support as possible – they may not be able to confide this to anyone else. Check in with them when possible to ensure their safety.


4. Record evidence.

Write down everything you have experience or witnessed. Write down the date, time and event. This information can be used in court cases and police reports.


5. Spread the word and break down the stigma.

Help domestic violence organizations to raise money within your community to help victims of domestic violence. If possible, donate money to such organizations. This allows people to grow more comfortable with this topic and discuss how more people can help victims of domestic violence, as well as support the organizations in what they are doing.


*To access the helpline, search ‘(your country)’s domestic violence helpline’ or find your country’s hotline here. If someone in your community is experiencing domestic violence and cannot access it, try to call or find the number on their behalf – this could save a life.


Although people might cover it up, ignore it or create a stigma around it, domestic violence is a very real issue, affecting a large proportion of society that must be addressed immediately. We need to act as soon as possible to prevent future generations living in fear of their partner. We need to save lives.





Sources:


Written by: Jena Chai

 
 
 

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