Shiela M.

Villalobos September 2, 2021

BSBA OM 3A

REACTION PAPER

ANTI VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN

Violence is defined by the World health organization as the intentional

use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another
person, or against a group or community that either results in or a high
likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm or deprivation.
Directed to against women and children, this violence can take a number of
forms, sexual violence, child abuse and neglect, bullying trafficking and the major
violence against women and children is perpetrated by partners, family
members, friends or acquaintances.

Violence against women and children is a serious public health concern,

with costs at multiple levels of society. Although violence is a threat to everyone,
women and children are particularly susceptible to victimization because they
often have fewer rights or lack appropriate means of protection.

The impact of experiencing or witnessing violence as a child has wide-ranging

and long lasting effects. When a child experiences violence at home, they learn to
tolerate violence. They are also at an increased risk of suffering from poor
mental health, engaging in drug and alcohol abuse and risky sexual behaviors,
and contracting HIV. They are also more risk of behavioral problems such as
aggression, delinquency and poor social functioning.

It’s also important to understand that children who have experienced

violence are more likely to lack empathy towards others. That means they’re
more likely to perpetrate violence. It is this aspect of exposure to violence that
drivers its intergenerational transmission.
Growing up in violent households affects a child’s sense of security, self
worth and how they relate to other children.