Why Does Domestic Violence Happen?
Domestic violence is also called domestic abuse. It typically begins when one partner feels the need, for whatever reason, to dominate or control the other. Abuse is rarely about the victim, and almost always about the perpetrator. There is no just reason for domestic abuse, but knowing why it occurs can help advocates and those in the legal system strengthen their ability to prevent it.
Common Reasons for Abuse
Though there may be a variety of reasons why one partner is abusive towards another, there are reasons that are more common than others. These include:
Jealousy: It doesn’t matter if the cause of jealousy is real or imagined. Jealousy can make a person act in ways they otherwise would not. A partner may believe that the other is speaking to another person in such a way that they are flirting. A partner may believe that the attention of another person towards their partner is the fault of their partner.
Low Self-Esteem: Abusing someone can make the perpetrator feel powerful. Low self-esteem can contribute to domestic violence more often than people realize. A male partner may lose their job, for example, and feel as though they are no longer providing for the family “like a man.” This can result in diminished self-esteem which may be taken out against a partner in the form of abuse.
Traditional Beliefs: In some cultures, men believe that they are in a position of hierarchy. They do not believe that women are on the same level and, through that thinking, believe that it is well within their rights to control their lesser partner. Domestic violence in these situations may be accepted by the partner who holds the same beliefs.
Learned Behavior: In some instances of domestic violence, the abuser grew up in a household in which domestic abuse was present. The perpetrator may have watched their father abuse their mother or may have been abused themselves. In these cases, physical dominance is the way the perpetrator learned to express displeasure, stress or anger.
Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and drugs are known to be a catalyst to domestic abuse. When a person is drunk or high, they are less likely to control their violent impulses. This can place their partner in extreme danger. This danger may be amplified when both partners are impaired due to drugs or alcohol.
While it is more common for women to be abused by men within marriages, domestic partnerships or even dating relationships, the roles can be and are reversed at times. Women can and do abuse men, women abuse their female partners, and men abuse their male partners. There is not a single face to domestic violence. Abuse occurs in relationships despite gender, race, religion, socioeconomic status or ethnicity.
If you have been charged with domestic violence in Atlanta, call Hawkins Spizman Fortas for a free case evaluation. We will review the details of your arrest and charges and advise you of the options available to you. Call today and discover how we may best represent you as you move forward with your case.
