Valley News Desk

WRITER: Lone Shahid

Impacts of domestic violence

Domestic violence is a complex issue which affects every one of us. It is Increasing day by day. A number of guidelines have been published, research has been commissioned, 
awareness has been raised. But it is still continues. So, it is a serious concern, we should have look into the matter seriously. It has become big concern in our society. Our mothers, sisters lost their status, place, respect etc. Females are mostly involved in this menace. Males also are the victims of domestic violence, although instances are both less common and less severe. These cases are less likely to be reported. Preparation of domestic  violence  comes from all socio_ economic, cultural and educational backgrounds. The stresses of poverty and the abuse of such substances as alcohol and drugs contribute to the problem. 


Domestic violence includes all acts of physical, sexual, psychological or economic violence that commits by a family member or intimate partner. Many types of abuses are included in domestic violence such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, threats, economic abuse, psychological abuse etc. Victims can be spouses, sexual/dating/intimate partner, family member, children cohabitants.Domestic violence physical or emotional abuse reaches every corner of our society. It does not respect class, race, religion, culture or wealth. Overwhelming domestic violence is experienced by women and the perpetrator is male. It is born a social and personal problem because it affects the life of the victim on most level which can potentially cause early mortality or permanent injury and effects the family of the victim too. Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviour used to establish power and control over another person through fear and Intermidation. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, income etc. 


The 2012 National Crime records Bureau report of India States a report crime rate of 46 per 1 lac rape rate of 2 per 1 lac dowry homicide rate of 0.7 per 1 lac and the rate of domestic cruelty by husband or his relatives as 5.9 per 1 lac. Between 960000 and 3o lac incidents of domestic violence are reported each year and other incidents go unreported. Cases of domestic violence are on the rise in jk. On an average the States Womens commission receives 20 complaints of domestic violence daily. 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. Domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness among families. 


It is caused by several factors such as, following beliefs and attitudes  are common for abusers, sense of entitlement,a belief they should have power and control over partner, social forces, theories of violence e.g feminist theory,escalation of anger etc..women who are experiencing domestic violence or abuses are at significantly higher risk of experiencing a range of mental health conditions,depression,anxiety thoughts of suicide, effects menatality etc. Domestic violence is a social problem because the effects of domestic abuse causes a wide variance in health care, financial legislative, social injustice and disparities in society. Most people think that domestic violence is a private family matter and choose not to get involved. However domestic violence impacts a community in surprising ways. Domestic violence tears the very fabric of a community by dismantling family units and causing a ripple effect of repercussions that are felt for many years. One of the most lasting consequence of domestic violence is the harm it does to fairly bonds. Children witnesses violence committed against their parent can find it difficult to trust adults in the future. An estimated 3.3 million children are exposed to violence against their mother or a female caretaker.

These kids have higher levels of anger, hostility, disobedience and withdrawal. They have similar health issues as adults, anxiety, sleep, disorders, mental health school performance etc. Adult victims suffer from a host of long term health problems like heart disease, chronic pain, stress etc. Loved ones who may witness domestic violence also exhibit certain behaviours. Sudden changes in their appearance, personality or interests becoming withdrawn, avoiding eye contact and physical bruises can all indicate that someone may be in an unhealthy and abusive relationship. Other signs may also include frequently being absent from school or work exhibiting a sudden fear of conflict and frequently accepting blame for arguments or other situations at home or work.  As with many personal or family related problems, there is a tremendous stigma that prevents victims from coming forward to share their experience and to seek help. This stigma along with overwhelming feelings of shame or embarrassment can be particularly damaging for male domestic violence survivors. So, it is a serious matter. It has great impact on society too. It will lead to conflicts between families. Girls will get feared to marry. Womens will lost their hope. They will feel alone. They will lost their respect etc. Other members of the society will also learn they will also do this cruel acts. As Muslims we should not do this. It is one of the biggest sin. We should respect our mothers and sisters. This is not good for community and society.    

Impacts of domestic violence: Lone Shahid

The writer is pursuing M. Com in kashmir university and writes on different issues. He can be reached at   LONE SHAHID

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