High Rise in Domestic Violence
By Precious S Badran
Introduction
Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue, particularly within the African American community and other diverse communities. This paper seeks to explore the underlying factors contributing to the high rates of domestic violence in these communities, examining the historical roots of such abuse and its perpetuation through societal and political structures. By drawing connections to the broader concept of systemic abuse, including the ongoing infringement on women's rights, this analysis will highlight the ways in which domestic violence is both a symptom and a consequence of deeper societal issues.
Historical Context and Theory
To understand the rise in domestic violence, it is essential to reexamine the historical context of slavery and its lasting impact on African American communities. Slavery not only involved the physical subjugation of Black individuals but also established a legacy of control and domination that has persisted over generations. This historical backdrop provides a framework for understanding the dynamics of power and control that continue to manifest in domestic relationships today.
The theory proposed here suggests that domestic violence within the African American community can be traced back to the structures of oppression established during slavery. The control exerted over women in these contexts, both historically and in contemporary settings, is a reflection of broader societal norms that seek to categorize and subjugate women, particularly women of color.
Contemporary Issues: Women's Rights and Political Influence
In recent years, political actions have further complicated the issue of domestic violence by infringing on women's rights. The increasing restrictions on a woman's right to choose, exemplified by state-by-state bans on reproductive rights, represent a modern form of control that parallels historical abuses. These political decisions are not merely about regulating reproductive health; they symbolize a broader attempt to curtail women's autonomy and reinforce a patriarchal structure that has long sought to dominate women.
The categorization of women into groups, particularly in the context of reproductive rights, serves as another form of abuse. By stripping women of their individual rights and reducing them to their biological functions, society perpetuates a form of control that is inherently abusive. This systemic abuse is further compounded by the fact that the majority of those making these decisions are men, often white, who wield power in ways that directly impact the lives and freedoms of women.
The Role of Male Domination
The male domination evident in both public and private spheres is a catalyst for the rise in domestic violence. Young men, influenced by societal norms and subliminal messages, often internalize the belief that exerting control over women is acceptable, even necessary. This mentality, reinforced by a culture that often excuses or minimizes violence against women, contributes to the perpetuation of domestic violence.
Moreover, the close-range nature of domestic violence—occurring within the home and between intimate partners—makes it a particularly insidious form of abuse. The power dynamics at play in these situations are often reflective of broader societal trends, where male dominance is normalized and women's autonomy is undermined.
Conclusion
The rise in domestic violence, particularly within African American and other diverse communities, cannot be understood in isolation. It is a symptom of larger societal issues, including the historical legacy of slavery, the ongoing infringement on women's rights, and the pervasive influence of male domination in both public and private spheres. To address this issue effectively, it is essential to challenge these systemic structures of power and control and to advocate for the rights and autonomy of all individuals, regardless of gender or race.
By drawing connections between these various factors, this paper highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to combating domestic violence—one that addresses not only the immediate manifestations of abuse but also the underlying societal norms that perpetuate it.
