Meaning- Domestic violence refers to any form of abuse or violence, whether physical,

emotional, psychological, or sexual, that occurs within a domestic or intimate

relationship. It is a pattern of behavior used by one partner to exert power and control
over the other. Domestic violence can occur between spouses, partners, family
members, or housemates. It is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences
for victims and their families

Causes of Domestic Violence- 🥀✊🏽

Power and control: Domestic violence can be a way for one partner to exert power and
control over the other partner. This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as physical
violence, emotional abuse, or financial control. (Source: National Domestic Violence
Hotline, https://www.thehotline.org/resources/what-is-power-and-control/)

Substance abuse: Substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs, can increase the
likelihood of domestic violence. However, it is important to note that substance abuse
does not cause domestic violence and that many people who struggle with addiction do
not engage in violent behavior. (Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse,
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/substance-use-in-women/sub
stance-use-violence-against-women)

Mental health issues: Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and
personality disorders, can contribute to domestic violence. However, it is important to
note that most people with mental health issues do not engage in violent behavior.
(Source: National Alliance on Mental Illness,
https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Common-with-Mental-Illness/Domestic-Viole
nce)

Childhood experiences: People who experienced abuse or violence during childhood

may be more likely to engage in domestic violence as adults. However, it is important to
note that not all people who experienced childhood abuse become perpetrators of
domestic violence. (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/childhood.html)

Societal norms: Societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and reinforce
stereotypes about masculinity and femininity can contribute to domestic violence.
(Source: World Health Organization,
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women)
MEASURES -
Education and Awareness Campaigns: Education and awareness campaigns can help
to reduce the stigma associated with domestic violence and promote a culture of
non-violence. Such campaigns can be aimed at schools, workplaces, and communities
to educate people about domestic violence, its effects, and how to seek help.
Source: "Preventing Domestic Violence: A Comprehensive Community-Based
Approach" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK218776/)

Access to Counseling and Support Services: Providing access to counseling and

support services can help survivors of domestic violence to cope with the trauma and
seek help. These services can include crisis hotlines, support groups, and individual
counseling.
Source: "Domestic Violence and Abuse: Signs of Abuse and Abusive Relationships"
(https://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/domestic-violence-and-abuse.htm)

Legal Interventions: Legal interventions can help to hold perpetrators of domestic

violence accountable for their actions. This can include restraining orders, arrest, and
prosecution.
Source: "Legal Interventions in Family Violence"
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499953/)

Economic Empowerment: Economic empowerment of survivors of domestic violence

can help to reduce their vulnerability and increase their ability to leave abusive
relationships. This can include financial assistance, job training, and education.
Source: "The Economic Costs of Intimate Partner Violence: Implications for Prevention"
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6449561/)