Why?

Why Is Domestic Violence So Common?

The roots of domestic violence are embedded in attitudes toward women which have existed for hundreds of years. Even today there are numerous societies where a woman is treated as the property of her husband and he is seen as having the right to use physical force in relating to her, if necessary. Although not spoken aloud, there are segments in our American society where this attitudes still exists.

As with all social problems, the causes of domestic violence are many and sometimes complex. Factors which keep domestic violence from being recognized as a crime include:

a lack of understanding that verbal and physical violence are learned behaviors, often learned from role models such as parents, relatives or friends;
a lack of understanding that violence in relationships is often used as a way to reduce emotional stress, as a defense mechanism, or as a way to maintain control in the relationship;
a lack of recognition that there is a high correlation between alcohol and substance abuse and domestic violence;

continual exposure to violent behavior in entertainment, sports and the media;

reinforcement of sexual roles condoning aggressive and violent behavior by males; and,
a lack of public awareness regarding the severity of the problem with many still believing it is a private matter within the family instead of a criminal issue and, therefore, best left alone.
(source)http://nccafv.org/spouse.htm
Please remember you still have time to sponsor and help The National Leather Association-International Domestic Violence Project.

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