Gender Studies: Combating Domestic Violence Essay

Introduction

Domestic violence is one of daunting but, unfortunately, prevalent problems of modern society. This violence can take many forms and have a varying degree of manifestation, but it is a problem that needs to be addressed (Flood 13). The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed description of domestic violence, as well as the development of an action plan that can help in this situation.

Key Aspects

For subsequent analysis, it is necessary to determine the exact definition of this problem. Domestic violence can consist of many factors, such as verbal, physical, and sexual abuse. Society often sees this issue as family violence from which everyone in the family suffers, including children (Carlson et al. 1). However, this essay deals exclusively with the problems that women face. According to Flood, all the causes of domestic violence can be divided into reasons related to gender roles, social norms, and low socioeconomic status (16). These three clusters combine a wide range of reasons explaining why violence against women occurs everywhere. Studies show that one in three women over fifteen years of age has experienced domestic violence at least once in their lives (McPhedran et al. 214). It is the severity and relevance of this problem that calls to pay attention to it and do everything possible to combat it.

When it comes to domestic violence, first of all, qualified support and the help of specialists are needed. For example, one of the possible consequences of sexual abuse against a woman may be HIV infection, so specialized centers include doctors of this profile (Cavanaugh et al. 2). Therefore, it is crucial to educate and inform people about the existence of such centers and resources aimed at combating domestic violence. Here is a shortlist of domestic violence help-oriented organizations that can help victims of abuse.

1. Los Angeles Domestic Violence Shelters. Their 24-Hour Hotlines are available at the following numbers: (800) 479-7328, (800) 339-3940. These organizations provide shelter and counseling for victims of domestic violence. More information at www.hcidla.lacity.org/domestic-violence-shelters.
2. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides the possibility of anonymous consultations online or by telephone at 1-800-799-77233. This resource also distributes various articles to inform the public. More information at www.thehotline.org/
3. The Victim Connect Resource Center provides similar support. More details at www.victimconnect.org.

In addition to the availability of specialized resources, the joint work of the public on this problem is also necessary. Such work can be carried out by following a daily plan of action in everyday life. A list of actions to contribute to the fight against domestic violence is presented here. These simple steps can help victims of abuse find the strength to become aware of their situation and seek help.

1. Pay more attention to women surrounding you. Although domestic violence may not be apparent, it is possible to notice deviations, especially emotional, in the behavior of acquaintances (Flood 28).
2. Raise the topic of violence against women more frequently in discussions. Doing this will, firstly, educate people, and secondly, it can help victims understand their problems.
3. Disseminate information about specialized support centers as widely as possible. The more people know about this, the higher are chances that victims will use this information and seek help.

Conclusion

The problem of domestic violence is complicated and requires careful study in each case. However, this does not mean that the discussion of this problem should remain only in the circles of researchers. This problem is found everywhere, and discussions about it should also be continuously conducted in all spheres. The issue of domestic violence against women is critical, and that is why everyone should pay attention to it and include in their lives a simple action plan to help victims of abuse.

Works Cited

Carlson, Melanie, et al. “A Good Call?: Contextual Factors Influencing Mandated Reporting in Domestic Violence Programs.” Journal of Family Violence, 2019, pp. 1-10, Web.

Cavanaugh, Courtenay E., et al. “Assessing Domestic Violence Shelter Workers Views and Practices Pertaining to HIV Prevention Services for Women Residing in Domestic Violence Shelters.” Journal of interpersonal violence, 2018, pp. 1-18, Web.

Flood, Michael. Engaging Men and Boys in Violence Prevention. Palgrave Macmillan, 2018.

McPhedran, Samara, et al. “A Cross-National Comparison of Police Attitudes About Domestic Violence: A Focus on Gender.” Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management, vol. 40, no. 2, 2017, pp. 214-227.