My Views on Domestic Violence

Written by SHIJIBOMI JOLAAWO

Year 12 (2020/2021)

Domestic violence is one of the major problems we are facing in the world today. There are many forms and each is devastating. Physical violence includes hitting, biting, punching, choking, burning, forceful use of drugs among others.

Domestic violence typically includes sexual or physical violence, psychological aggression from a former or current partner. Domestic violence affects millions of people and often results in emotional and physical injuries including death. Most spouses stay in such toxic relationships due to illiteracy, black mail, peer pressure, pressure from family and friends or even fear of getting hurt and so much more.

Some of the victims of domestic violence are often the weaker ones especially wives or the young ones. Having such toxic and unhealthy relationship between spouses can lead to severe effects on a child. There is a proven link between domestic violence and child abuse. Child abuse involves emotional, physical, sexual abuse or neglect of the child under the age of eighteen by either the parents, a caregiver, friend or a relative which results in the harm of a child.

Studies have shown that children who live in a violent home are most likely to be victims of child abuse. It could be either through constant yelling and argument between parents who more often than not vent frustration on their children both physically and emotionally. All these in effect cause so much emotional stress which can damage the development of the children’s brains and also cause negative behavioural changes.

As the children grow into their teens, they begin to have personality and behavioural problems such as depression, suicidal thoughts, drug addiction, teenage pregnancy and criminal acts than those from non violent homes. Parents seriously need to avoid this seed of future destruction that is fast germinating in most homes.

There is a strong chance that child abuse will become an endless cycle of violence for the next generation if care is not taken. Children who are victims of domestic violence and family violence may tend to believe that violence or aggression is a right or the best way to resolve conflict. This is wrong in all ramifications. But who do we blame for such notion? Parents of course! What the eyes see, the brain processes and the hands act upon.

Men who grew up in violent homes are more likely to abuse women as they most likely witnessed their mothers being abused. Little wonder that many marriages these days have a short life span.

This is why educating children and helping victims of child abuse is important. Children can be better secured from the effects of domestic violence in their home and environment. Every child has the right to feel safe and be cared for. Children and parents need to know that domestic violence is wrong and learn non violent methods of resolving conflicts and most importantly, children need to know that there are adults who will listen to them, shelter them and love them. When these conditions are met, the entire world would be a peaceful abode for all humans.

Photo Credit: Sammy Williams/Unsplash