Name: Elleanor Teacher: Ms Wilson

10 RE - Task 1- March 2024

Catholic Social Teachings - Research and Evidence
Framework template

Instructions: This Framework Template is provided to assist and guide you with your
preparation for this task. You are to record the relevant research in each section ​before the test
date.
This framework template will be uploaded to Seqta as a formative task by 8:45am
Monday 18th March.

1. (See)
Looking at the social justice issue and its impact on society.

Instructions:

a) Select a social justice issue from the list below and indicate your selection by highlighting
the issue. You may choose another issue, in consultation with your teacher.

Indigenous inequality Asylum seekers/refugees Environmental

Sustainability
Racism Homelessness Domestic Violence
Modern Day Slavery Aged Care An issue of your choice

The issue and its impact

b) Find relevant ​facts​and​information​to help explain what the issue is and who is being
impacted.
c) Use statistics, personal stories and news websites/stories to support your investigation.
d) Consider what the issue is, who is impacted and how, where it is happening, why it is
happening.

Record this in the next box...

● Domestic violence is the exertion of control over a partner in a relationship. This issue includes physical,
emotional/psychological (undermining self-worth through criticism, name-calling or other verbal abuse;
damaging relationships or not letting a partner access support networks), sexual, or financial abuse,
making it extremely dangerous for the victim and others in the household who are involved, such as
children. This issue has many consequences for the emotional and behavioural development of children
who are witnesses. They become at an increased risk of experiencing or perpetrating abuse later in life

1
 and may experience mental health issues and difficulty concentrating in school. According to the World
Health Organization (WHO), globally, an estimated 1 in 3 women have experienced violence by an
intimate partner. It is a global issue occurring in urban, suburban, and rural areas/homes all around the
world. While domestic violence can affect people of all races and ages, women have been proven to be
more likely to experience abuse. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), an estimated 1
in 6 (17%) Australian women and 1 in 16 (6%) Australian men have experienced partner violence since
the age of 15.
● It may be difficult to know when domestic violence is taking place as the victim may feel pressured or
unable to speak out against it and rather try to justify or blame themselves for the abuser's actions as a
defense mechanism.
● An example includes Anj, who at the age of 14 attempted to end an abusive relationship. He assaulted
her, causing severe brain injury and leaving her in a coma. She now has to be transported by wheelchair
and use a voice box to speak. This had dramatic impacts on her parents and also demonstrates the
impact this violence can have on the community, contributing to social and economic costs (e.g
medical). Domestic violence is estimated to cost Australia around 26 billion dollars annually.

https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/crime-and-justice/personal-safety-australia/latest-release

2. (Judge)
Understanding what is happening and why it is happening.
a) What are the reasons and causes of this social justice issue?

- Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction can exacerbate tense emotions and lead to physical
violence.
- People who have experienced trauma or abuse in their own lives, such as childhood abuse or witnessing
domestic violence, are more likely to become perpetrators or victims of this issue due to the psychological
impact and experience of trauma.
- Those with the desire for power and control can be a root cause of implementing physical, emotional, financial
and social abuse. Additionally, individuals with mental health issues are increasingly likely to perpetrate abuse
due to manipulative behaviours or difficulty controlling strong emotions of anger and frustration.
- Alcohol and drugs can exacerbate tensions within a relationship and lower the mental capacity to think logically
and clearly, leading to violent behaviour.
- A lack of education means that people may have a limited understanding of what is involved in healthy
relationships and abusive behaviours. Unable to recognize signs of abuse, they are increasingly susceptible to
manipulation and control by an abusive partner. They may also be unaware of support services available to them
and find it difficult to express their experiences.
- Additionally, people of lower socioeconomic status have less access to resources such as housing, healthcare and
legal assistance that may support and allow them to escape this violence, making them an at-risk group.
Economic instability may also increase stress in a household, therefore increasing the likelihood of conflict and
violence.

2
 b) Describe the impacts of the issue on individuals AND society.

Individuals:

● Victims often feel isolated, confused, alone and like they have a lack of control over the situation. This
means they find it difficult to seek support and don’t know the support networks they can turn to.
● They may also sustain physical injuries from violence, making it difficult to complete daily activities and
increasing fear of questions being raised from others who notice.
● They also experience feelings of extreme guilt and trauma, wondering if their actions may have been
wrong and are to blame for the abuse. This can also lead to low self-esteem and a diminished sense of
self-dignity, as well as the development of severe mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
● Victims may also have difficulty forming meaningful relationships and suffer from a lack of trust in
relationships due to their experiences, making it difficult to feel comfortable and truly loved, even after
gaining freedom from an abusive relationship.
● They may be forced to endure social isolation, where victims are prevented from accessing support
networks, thereby exacerbating their loneliness and vulnerability.
● In severe cases, death may occur when extreme violence takes place.

Society:

● Domestic violence negatively contributes to social and economic costs for services such as healthcare
expenses, legal costs, lost productivity in the workforce (due to physical/emotional trauma and time
taken for medical or legal assistance), and the need for social services (hotlines, counselling), particularly
for victims. This increases the already burdensome strain on these services and also leads to disparity
within socioeconomic groups when attempting to access these services.
● It also perpetuates cycles of violence across generations. With children being brought up exposed and
therefore desensitized to such violence, it becomes increasingly prevalent and creates a social norm
within communities where violence is accepted and barriers are placed towards victims seeking support.
● There is also a loss of trust in institutions when inaction or incompetence has led to increasing severity
of abuse and negative consequences. People believe that these services cannot support them and
therefore do not attempt to get help, either for themselves or others. It also means public consensus
negatively views these institutions, which can have major consequences.
● The strain on the criminal justice system is worsened as resources are required for the involvement of
law enforcement that allows court systems to prosecute offenders, obtain restraining orders, and provide
legal protection for victims.

What future concerns might exist as a result of this issue?

Due to an intergenerational cycle of violence and inadequate legal protection, victims may find

3
themselves more susceptible to abuse, worsening the negative stigma around domestic violence as well
as perpetuating a societal view where violence is ignored or accepted. This could be a problematic
future concern that may take place if we do not address the issue of domestic violence effectively. In
the long term, victims could also suffer from a lack of access to housing, education, and healthcare,
examples of basic human needs. There may also be impact on our healthcare system, increasing costs
and requiring additional funding/resources to provide adequate care to those in need. This also creates
economic instability. The increasing burden on healthcare systems caused by an increasing demand for
care may increase costs for medical care, mental health services and preventive care. Additionally, the
healthcare system may become so overburdened that support may not be readily available or not
possible to people of lower socioeconomic classes. Furthermore, limited funding, staffing, and
resources may compromise the ability of service providers to meet the diverse needs of victims and
survivors, particularly in underserved communities.

c) Respond to Scripture passages. Explain how they relate to your chosen issue.

SCRIPTURE RESPONSE

Matthew 25:35-40
‘The Judgement of Nations’ We are called to uphold the dignity of the human person who is
created in the image of God. We must ensure that those who are
experiencing domestic violence receive support and are treated in the
likeness of Jesus’ actions and teachings. In the passage, it states
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these
brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Therefore, we are
encouraged to assist the most vulnerable and marginalised, especially
those lacking basic human rights. In the message of “Visiting the sick
and imprisoned” we can consider victims of domestic violence who
have experienced physical injuries, mental health challenges, and
emotional trauma. The availability of care, love and resources to
restore their health and well-being is essential for us as Christians to
provide. We must restore the sense of inherent self-worth that we all
as humans made in the likeness of God have that is stripped away
from victims and affirm their inherent value.

4
 Luke 16:19-31 While warning about the importance of following God’s guidance
‘The Rich Man and Lazarus’ and the danger of becoming selfish and concerned with earthly
possessions, this passage from Luke also carries themes of justice and
compassion, something we must be prepared to show both victims
and perpetrators of domestic violence. We as Catholics must be able
to express compassion and love towards the suffering and vulnerable
by offering support and guidance through their trials. This passage
teaches about the value of every individual and the importance of
addressing injustice, particularly when it states, “Father Abraham,
have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water
and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.” This
exaggerates how we as Catholics must not take for granted the
impact of our actions and ensure we use these actions to carry out
positive change within our society, especially those who are most
marginalised.
The parable also emphasizes how we must use the power we have to
support those who are marginalized, rather than exerting dominance
and influence to gain control as shown in abusive relationships. Luke
shows us how to do this by encouraging individuals and communities
to undertake proactive steps to support victims, challenging abusive
behavior, and encouraging the prevention of future violence.

James 2: 14-17
Faith without works is dead. The passage describes the importance of genuine faith being
demonstrated through visible actions or deeds, a main theme being
the need for a relationship between a Christian’s faith and actions. We
learn that our faith must be accompanied and expressed by tangible
actions if we want to provide truly meaningful support to those in
need. James states “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action,
is dead.” This teaches us that we must not speak empty words or
promises that do not come into fruition, but rather make sacrifices
and follow the example of Christ to ensure our faith is physically
carried out every day. In the context of domestic violence, we must
be prepared to support both the victim and the abuser. Some
corporeal actions we can take include offering them shelter and
emotional support, helping them to understand effective coping
strategies. It also means actively reaching out to assist them, publicly
advocating for their rights, and working to address underlying issues
that contribute to domestic violence. James teaches the importance
of carrying out these actions to truly demonstrate our Christianity.

5
Catholic Social Teachings

Question Catholic Social Teachings

a) Tick/highlight the TWO Catholic
Social Teachings that apply to your
social justice issue.
● Life and Dignity of the Human
Person
● Call to Family, Community, and
Participation
● Rights and Responsibilities
● Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
● The Dignity of Work and the Rights
of Workers
● Solidarity
● Care for God’s Creation

b) Briefly explain HOW these CSTs apply to your social justice issue.

Useful websites:
● https://www.caritas.org.au/learn/cst-toolkit/
● https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/catholic-social-teaching/catholic-social-teaching-FAQs/
● https://cafod.org.uk/pray/catholic-social-teaching

CST 1: Life and Dignity of the Human Person

Response: Dignity is the knowledge that all humans are made in the likeness of God. They each
have a purpose and a right to life, as well as safety. These basic rights are denied by perpetrators of
domestic violence who make their victims feel as if their self-worth was taken away. The act of
domestic violence contradicts the principle of respecting human life and threatens the wellbeing of
all people involved. We as Christians are called to support the most vulnerable regardless of gender,
age, ethnicity or socio-economic status, especially those who have had their dignity stripped from
them. This teaching educates us that we must understand the importance of the human person and
affirms that we are all worthy of love, the freedom to carry out God’s plan and protection. This is an
especially potent message that victims of domestic violence must hear to enable them to gain
strength and healing through our support. They may also require our support as Christians to help
them regain the sense of self value that has been taken away and work through the debilitating
experience of domestic violence, reminding them of both their self-worth and right to a fulfilling life.
Victims also have the right to seek support and safety in the way they see will most benefit them,
meaning we as Catholics must respect these decisions and empower them to make beneficial choices
that can lead to a more just, healed society where respect is upheld towards all people.

CST 2: Solidarity

6
Response: Solidarity is the knowledge that we are called to be one human family connected by God
and Jesus Christ. By following this teaching, Catholics understand that we must work together to lift
up our common family and ease the sufferings of those around us, taking time out of our busy lives
support the vulnerable, such as victims of domestic violence. Through our connectedness to Christ,
we must carry out his mission of solidarity, and act in the person of Christ. This means we must aid
and provide meaningful assistance towards those suffering from domestic violence, including
providing emotional support and educating them about coping strategies. These will demonstrate
solidarity and our belief in the catholic social teachings. Solidarity also involves understanding why
people suffer and to then using our gifts to solve these issues. Our awareness of this humanitarian
issue can lead us to carry out action and work towards abolishing it. We are encouraged by the
church to stand in solidarity with victims and work towards a transformed society where violence is
abolished.

c) What have Catholic Leaders said about this issue? (Popes/ Bishops)
**Use sources like Encyclicals, talks and media articles from Popes, as well as Statements by the
Australian Catholic Bishops to support your investigation.
https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/
https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/resources/social-justice-statements/

On behalf of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop Costelloe introduced the
2022-23 Social Justice Statement which stated that ‘the roots of domestic and family violence “lie in
the abuse of power to control and dominate others” which “stands in contrast to the relationships to
which God calls us” It also teaches us that our relationships should “promote equality and
reciprocity rather than domination and violence, respect and freedom rather than coercion and
control”. The statement encourages all Catholics to call out perpetrators of abuse and strive for
systemic change, creating a transformed, safe and more compassionate community where all
individuals are valued and free from violence.

Pope Francis also stated, “It is our duty, everyone’s responsibility, to give voice to our voiceless
sisters: women who are victims of abuse, exploitation, marginalization, and inappropriate pressure.”
He calls the act of domestic violence ‘something satanic’, clearly opposing it and making public his
view that we must work together as Christians to abolish this issue.
Pope John Paul II also said "Christ's way of acting, the Gospel of his words and deeds, is a
consistent protest against whatever offends the dignity of women" This encourages Catholics to
follow the example of Jesus in the way we choose to act towards victims and affirm their equal
dignity and value as human beings.

Therefore, it is evident that the church is strongly against the act of domestic violence and wishes to
support and provide comfort to victims. Catholic Leaders actively work to preach their abolishment
of domestic violence and rather encourage the equality and respect of all peoples, whether catholic
or not.

https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2022/08/02/sjs2022-23/

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255956/pope-francis-it-s-our-duty-to-give-a-v
oice-to-women-victims-of-abuse

7
 3. (Act)
Helpful Resources
The actions of Caritas - https://www.caritas.org.au/about/where-we-work/
The actions of Catholic Earthcare https://www.caritas.org.au/catholic-earthcare/
The actions for Justice https://www.catholic.au/s/topic/0TO2e00000008afGAA/justice
Additional Access to actions across a variety of topics
https://www.catholic.au/s/topic/0TO2e00000008ZZGAY/catholic-social-teaching

Discerning the actions needed to respond.

a) Outline how the Catholic Church is already making a difference to your chosen social
justice issue on a national or global level. Provide evidence from your research and
relevant sources. Start with the links above, but also find your own.

● Through advocating for policies that promote the safety of victims of domestic violence such as
Catholic Social Teachings, they encourage Catholics to support victims and provide support networks
for those who have experienced it. Furthermore, by promoting the values of love, respect, and
solidarity as essential components of healthy relationships, they discourage domestic violence and work
towards preventing it.
● Through the Catholic Social Justice Series and particularly in the 2022/23 Social Justice Statement of
“Respect: Confronting Violence and Abuse”, the Catholic Church educates that we as Catholics have a
vital role to play in addressing the issue of domestic violence and to promote a just society by our
moral and ethical actions.
● Additionally, catholic charities such as Caritas promote justice and works with the catholic church to
provide services such as emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, financial assistance, and access
to community resources. These resources help uphold the basic needs of victims, as well as
government services that the church works with like Social Services Australia.
● Counselling is also provided by priests and deacons who can give spiritual guidance and practical
assistance to victims.
● The church also provides educational programs and resources that raise awareness about domestic
violence within communities and schools, for example, Bishop Peter Comensoli’s “A Catholic
Response to Domestic Violence” The programs can include how to recognize signs of abuse,
understand its impact, and how to respond.

b) Draw conclusions that propose actions that Australian Catholics could take to address
the social justice issue with reference to your judgment.

The actions that Catholics could take to address domestic violence include promoting education and awareness
within Catholic communities about the prevalence and dynamics of domestic violence. This can be
implemented through religious education programs and workshops such as counselling services and support
groups that work to provide support and resources for survivors. In collaboration with community
organizations, shelters, and support services that specialize in addressing domestic violence, financial support

8
and resources can be provided to victims. Catholics can also participate in collaborative efforts to raise
awareness and support survivors, as well as raise funding for organisations that support victims of domestic
violence. Catholics can also provide support towards medical expenses, hospital visits, mental health treatment
and legal services. All these actions help us tangibly carry our faith as described in James 2: 14-17, as well as
addressing the root causes (such as lack of education) and symptoms (e.g. mental/physical wounds) of this issue
to work toward its eradication. It also allows us to uphold the dignity of every human being, one of the CST’s
and ensure we as humans gain and understand the inherent right we have to respect and love. We must also
publicly advocate for systemic change, promoting through words and actions a changed society of upheld
empathy, solidarity, and respect.

https://www.usccb.org/topics/marriage-and-family-life-ministries/when-i-call-help-pastoral-response-do
mestic-violence

https://www.catholic.au/s/article/International-Day-for-the-Elimination-of-Violence-Against-Women