Domestic violence is a black cloud on society that has affected lives since the dawn of human life. The disturbing violence affects individuals, families, and the communities in which we live. Many families are going through this locally and globally. In the USA Between 960,000 and 3,000,000 incidents of domestic violence are reported each year, while many other incidents are unreported.
In India, the National Crime Records Bureau claims the rate of domestic cruelty by a husband or his relatives as 5.9 per 100,000. In the UK the Office Of National Statistics claimed in the year ending March 2018, an estimated 2.0 million adults aged 16 to 59 years experienced domestic abuse in the last year. The figures prove humankind has not defeated the problem of domestic abuse.
To begin with, I would like to address the grave issue of domestic violence by describing domestic violence. If a person in a relationship tends to overpower the decisions and actions of the other person, backing those sentiments with verbal or physical assault (the latter we associate with domestic violence) he or she is liable to be categorized as a perpetrator of domestic violence. The suffering can be stopped by various methods. the wounds can be harder to heal. the Merriam- Webster dictionary defines domestic violence as,
Violent or abusive behavior directed by one family or household member against another
The reasons for domestic violence can be numerous. Let’s explore some common examples:
- A toxic relationship that has descended to an unfriendly level
- Money problems or theft by one party in the relationship
- Conflict over a break where custody of the children is in dispute
- Overall money problems
- Jealously
- Drugs, alcohol, and substance abuse
Domestic abuse against women and children is a particularly nasty crime as children and most women are weaker than an adult man. When the man is a Father or a husband deserting the violent abuser can be difficult emotionally. Stockholm syndrome is a psychological response where a captive family member begins to identify closely with his or her captor as well as with their demands. The Encyclopedia Britannica defines Stockholm Syndrome as:
The survival instinct is at the heart of the Stockholm syndrome. Victims live in enforced dependence and interpret rare or small acts of kindness in the midst of horrible conditions as good treatment.
Individuals who are suffering from domestic abuse should be strong and make plans to physically be separated from the abuser for the sake of their mental and physical well being. It is the adult’s responsibility to take children away from the abuser by any means possible. Stealth should be employed and the help of the authorities if the abuser may become violent. If the situation becomes unbearable and there is no other recourse, seeking legal protection may also be necessary, including the option to file a lawsuit against your abuser to ensure your safety and that of your children.
To fight with it, the fight should start from the core. The core of the situation is the abuse. Open that blindfold and make yourself aware of any unsocial activity or violence. Do not sit back and wait for destiny to decide how many times the abuser will continue to assault. Fight back by making the right decisions. Phone a relative for help so you can stay in a safe place. Contact the local authorities and ask for support.
What is Stockholm Syndrome?
Stockholm Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon in which hostages or victims of kidnapping develop sympathetic sentiments towards their captors. This counterintuitive bond can arise due to the intense emotional experiences shared between the captive and captor, often marked by a cycle of abuse and kindness.
The term originated in 1973, following a bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden, where hostages defended their kidnappers after being released and even resisted government assistance. Such behavior is believed to be a coping mechanism for the victim, wherein they subconsciously believe that siding with the captor increases their chances of survival.
Several theories explain this syndrome. One suggests that when a captor shows occasional kindness, the victim perceives a relief from the fear of death, interpreting such acts as positive when they are merely less negative than the abuse. Over time, gratitude for this ‘kindness’ can morph into affection or attachment. Another theory revolves around the power dynamics, where the victim becomes reliant on the captor for basic needs and survival, leading to a skewed bond of trust and dependence.
It’s essential to understand that Stockholm Syndrome doesn’t occur in all hostage or abusive situations. When it does, it’s a complex psychological response to trauma, and those affected require understanding and professional psychological support.
Domestic Abuse Speech
If you agree to my points, you will surely agree to find ways to remove yourself from domestic violence and travel a better, safer path.
The way to fight is to speak. Speak when it starts. Don’t let it cripple your confidence. Take your stand and make your life a healthy life and teach your near ones to take a stride to make their own future safe!
Say a big NO to Domestic Violence!
