Are Women Abused at Home

Women are victims of domestic violence in all parts of the world. They face abuse, both physical and verbal at home and often such cases go unreported. In some countries, it is taboo to discuss such matters, and women bear the man’s wrath very unwillingly. Men take out their frustrations on women if they are unhappy in their married life. Even children get abused in such situations. In some cases, men also face domestic abuse.

Domestic violence is a serious matter as it affects the mental and physical health of the victim. The majority of victims are women and those who are financially dependent on their husbands are in a worse situation. The violence can be in the form of a slap or of a more serious nature resulting in permanent disability or death.

Why Are Women Abused at Home

Men often are frustrated for other reasons apart from having marital differences with their wives. They may not be doing so well in their career, or are unable to adjust with their peer group, or may be undergoing psychological trauma of their own. They could be suffering from a personality disorder. Frustrated by their existence, they take it out on their wives and children, who are in a vulnerable position. Even elderly people are victims of such frustrations.

Social activists have off and on raised their voices against domestic violence affecting women. Feminists have favoured the economic independence of women in order to avoid abuse. Many women prefer being single as they feel it may be difficult to adjust with men. Nevertheless, domestic violence is a problem that needs to be addressed and is being done so. Let us focus on this problem further.

How Do Women Cope up with Domestic Violence

• Many report the matter to the police. They seek legal aid. Many a time their lives are in danger as their husbands make an attempt on their lives
• In India, the Domestic Violence Bill passed in 2005 protects the interests of women who are abused at home. It covers economic, verbal, physical and sexual abuse and protects the individual from any harm (Source)
• In Rwanda, domestic violence has reached serious proportions and several cases have been reported where the woman has been subjected to mental and physical torture (Source )
• Several social organizations and individuals have also taken an active part in trying to ensure that women are not physically and mentally abused at home. The media has highlighted the plight of such women to generate sympathy towards them from society. Affected women have taken advantage of this exposure and been able to draw the attention of various social activists in helping them to overcome the crisis. The Delhi Commission for Women, India, protects women from harassment. Even in the U.S. several legislative measures are there protecting the interests of women
• Legal action is also taken against the spouse. The woman is able to fight for her rights and restore her freedom. The custody of the children is also given to her.
• The United Nations has also been concerning itself with aggression against women and passed several resolutions supporting women’s cause.

Women can raise their voices against physical and mental abuse by men. A wife can take legal action and come out of the shackles of a bad marriage. She need not take things lying down. She can be assertive and find solutions to avoid daily abuse by her spouse. Much social support is there for her to face the situation bravely.