There are several critical social issues discussed in the film Domestic Violence, A Big Brother Story, and School Bullying. The first problem is domestic violence, which has a detrimental effect on the lives of victims. According to statistics, every fourth woman and every seventh man are expected to encounter domestic violence during their lifetime (Piquero, 2021). The issue is especially relevant nowadays since a study shows that lockdowns increase violent instances at home during the pandemic period (Piquero, 2021). Those who suffer from domestic abuse can be physically and psychologically traumatized, which puts the individuals’ lives and well-being in danger and can even lead to lethal results.
The second issue raised in the film is bullying at schools. There are several types of bullying, including verbal, social, physical, and cyberbullying. The movie indicates that bullying negatively affects children’s academic performance and self-esteem. In addition, it can put in danger the victims’ mental and physical health, leading to depression and suicidal thoughts. Research indicated the correlation between bullying and instances of depressive and self-harmful behaviors (Karanikola, 2018). Despite implementing various anti-bullying policies, it is still a common issue in schools.
The next crucial social topic is parental education. The film described the practices of educational institutions that teach parents how to raise their children properly. Raising kids seems to be one of the most important roles that parents play in ensuring society’s development and providing opportunities for children to live more fulfilled and joyful lives.
Finally, the movie covers the issue of individuals who lack social interaction experience. Those who do not have the opportunity to communicate with one of their parents or siblings do not have access to meaningful human interactions that create a richer picture of life. For such people, the film highlighted the Big Brothers Big Sisters program that allows them to fulfill the need for close relationships.
One of the most important concerns for my future life is the ability to raise and care for children properly. It is a deeply significant issue that requires proper education and effort. To provide kids the opportunity to become the best versions of themselves, enjoy their lives, and follow their dreams, I feel obligated to educate myself in parenting as best as possible.
Among the questions raised by this film, I would like to investigate the following one: What does it require to be a good parent?
A question for class discussion: What social and personal factors increase the chances of domestic violence?
The issue of elderly domestic abuse is considered to be one of the most serious public health problems. There are different types of risks for elder individuals connected with domestic abuse. The first is physical violence, manifesting through cuts, bruises, and open wounds. Next, senior persons can experience the neglect of caregivers, like adults who refuse to ensure care for their aged parents. Another one is the financial exploitation of older people, which can be represented through family members forcefully acquiring money from an older individual’s pension. The next type of domestic violence against older adults is psychological abuse. For instance, family members can behave disrespectfully and offensively towards their elders. Finally, there is a risk of sexual abuse for elderly individuals. People can take advantage of the weak physical conditions of an older person to conduct sexual violence.
References
Karanikola, M. N., Lyberg, A., Holm, A. L., & Severinsson, E. (2018). The association between deliberate self-harm and school bullying victimization and the mediating effect of depressive symptoms and self-stigma: A systematic review. BioMed Research International, 2018(1), 1-37.
Piquero, A. R., Jennings, W. G., Jemison, E., Kaukinen, C., & Knaul, F. M. (2021). Domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic-Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Criminal Justice, 74(1), 1-10.