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Definition of the Problem
Domestic violence often occurs among partners who are in an intimate relationship. Governmental and non-governmental agencies have often argued that domestic violence as a serious social problem in America (Lockhart & Danis, 2010). Although men and women may be victims of domestic violence, many cases often involve violence against women. Victimization is also a common product of domestic violence cases in America with national statistics reporting that 1.9 million women are assaulted annually (United States Census Bureau, 2015). It transcends the boundaries of sexual orientation or gender, but as Lockhart & Danis (2010) report, LGBT communities report the highest cases of domestic violence. The rates of domestic violence among racial minorities and other disadvantaged groups in America are also high. For example, data from the United States Census Bureau (2015) shows that 60% of Native Americans are likely to be assaulted at least once in their lives. Other statistics reveal that more than 22% of American women have been victims of assault, at least once, in their current or past relationships.
Justification of the Problem
It is difficult to ignore domestic violence in todays society because of its socioeconomic impact on families. For example, its effects on the wellbeing of children are vivid, with many researchers suggesting that most children who grow up in violent homes are likely to perpetrate the same vice in their future relationships (Lockhart & Danis, 2010). According to McGee (2000), up to 20% of children in America have witnessed domestic violence among their parents or guardians. This exposure has negative outcomes on their social and psychological development. For example, poor academic performance stems from this exposure (McGee, 2000). Experts have also drawn a close relationship between neglect, abuse, poor problem-solving skills, emotional problems, and behavioral problems to this exposure. Compounding this problem is the complexity of parental psychopathology, which increases the tolerance of victims of domestic violence to abuse. It may also compromise their quality of parenting and lead to the development of emotional and behavioral complications. Homelessness also shares a close relationship with domestic violence because experts suggest that 38% of victims of domestic violence are likely to be homeless in their lifetime (Lockhart & Danis, 2010). In line with this observation, experts say that domestic violence is among the leading causes of homelessness among women in America. Based on an understanding of the effects of domestic violence, it is important to come up with creative ways of stopping this problem.
Resolving the Issue
Experts who have investigated cases of domestic violence suggest that they involve the dynamics of control and oppression (Davis, 2008). These dynamics may result in physical and non-physical abuse. Since domestic violence is a function of control and oppression, tackling the problem involves a three-pronged strategy that would require the input of law enforcement officers, community organizations, and activists. Activists should take a predominant role in this strategy by targeting men and educating them about the negative effects of domestic violence (Lockhart & Danis, 2010). They should also participate in the formulation of reduction programs for encouraging people to refrain from such a vice. Law enforcement officers should complement their efforts by arresting and prosecuting offenders who do not want to heed to such initiatives. Community organizations should also complement such initiatives by creating domestic violence shelters for victims. They should also help to create a culture that does not condone domestic violence. Collectively, these efforts should reduce the incidences of domestic violence in America.
References
Davis, R. (2008). Domestic Violence: Intervention, Prevention, Policies, and Solutions. New York, NY: CRC Press.
Lockhart, L., & Danis, F. (2010). Domestic Violence: Intersectionality and Culturally Competent Practice. New York, NY: Columbia University Press.
McGee, C. (2000). Childhood Experiences of Domestic Violence. New York, NY: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
United States Census Bureau. (2015). Domestic Violence in America. Web.
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