Kadeejah Miller
January 11, 2013
Journalism
Domestic
violence editorial:
Domestic violence, also
known as intimate partner violence, is a pattern of negative behavior that is
used by one person to gain power and control over another. It may include the
use of physical and sexual violence, verbal and emotional abuse, stalking and
economic abuse. Sexual, emotional and psychological intimidation may also
occur. Domestic violence is a gender-based crime with women being more likely
to experience domestic violence than men. According to the National Violence
Against Women Survey (NVAWS) about 1.5 million women are raped and/or
physically assaulted by an intimate partner annually.
Domestic violence is a crime affecting not only the
victims but society as well and therefore, knowledge and
the enforcement of laws are needed for the prevention and treatment of this
abuse. Personally touched by
this type of violence, I strongly believe that with a better understanding of
this crime and how to recognize its effects, we can help put an end to this
type of abuse and make the road to recovery a promising one. However, there are
still those who feel that this is not an important issue, and these are the
views we must change. Picture having to live your everyday life in fear, not
being able to be yourself because you’re scared you might say something wrong.
As a young child witnessing this abuse is unbearable.
Domestic violence has many
effects, both short-term and long-term. For the victims, women especially,
there are physical injuries, miscarriages, and death. They also suffer from
depression and eating disorders. Children from violent homes may suffer poor health, low
self-esteem and sleeping difficulties
Here are some statistics that are common in today’s
society. 1) Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten. 2) Most often, the abuser is a member of her
own family. 3) Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than
car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. 4) Studies suggest that up to 10
million children witness some form of domestic violence annually. 5) Nearly 1 in 5
teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened
violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup. 6) Everyday in the US, more
than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends. 7) 95 percent of
women who had been physically abused by their partners had never contacted
non-governmental organizations, shelters, or the police for help.
There are many organizations and programs to help people
today get through this abuse but it is up to the victim to get help. No it is
not always easy but when you get the chance DO NOT turn back or waste an
opportunity. There’s always help, just don’t wait until it’s too late.
