Domestic violence : a brief study on the causes and prevention of women battering

Abstract

Domestic Violence can be described as including any form of physical, sexual, psychological or emotional abuse between people in a close relationship. Families are generally portrayed as shelter providers against the strains and stress of everyday life, and regardless of any problems and threats that might exist outside the home, each individual seeks, and hopes to find security with whom such person forms an intimate relationship. For many, however, this wish is far from realised, since the people with whom they live are a source of constant danger rather than security. Malta, is not spared from domestic violence, however several cases remain unpublicised due to various reasons. This research looks at the information that was gathered as a result of interviews. The article also reports the work of the Malta Police Force, the Church and social workers, who are typically the first line of help and support. The article concludes by providing recommendations on what one should do if they are victims of domestic violence, and suggests ways in which there can be more education and communication on domestic abuse, which will ultimately help victims come forward to report abuse and also reduce incidences of domestic violence.