Domestic And Family Violence Essay

1345 Words3 Pages

Conflict theory emphasises that society and the criminal justice system all function on behalf of the rich and powerful, with the consequential policies intended at controlling the poor, often preserving a system where the upper class maintains power and all the other classes remain not only economically disadvantaged but are left almost powerless as well. (Greek, C 2005). This essay will examine the nature and extent of domestic and family violence and define how and why it is considered a social problem today. It will consider what it involves, the extent and frequency of it in society, and who is most affected by it. The concept of conflict theory will then be outlined and applied to the social problem by focusing on two key theorists whose work can be used to provide a suitable explanation for the existence of domestic and family violence. Domestic and family violence have been present is almost every society of the world since the medieval times, where husbands had the power of life or death over their wives, as long as it was for disciplinary reasons (Pleck,1987; Davis, 1971). In today’s society domestic and family violence is referred to as a particular pattern of behaviour, which includes the deliberate and methodical use of violence and abusive tactics to create fear and obtain power and control over their partner. Domestic and family violence is not a private issue. It is a social issue. It is a political issue. It is a moral issue. It is a social problem because the effects are felt far outside the home; it has serious human, social and economic consequences both for the women who endure it and for society as a whole. Domestic and family violence is damaging to women’s personal and financial independence and can do ser... ... middle of paper ... ... shorter every time to the point of the violence and abuse occurring without lead-up or subsequent remorse By looking at both Karl Marx and Max Weber’s view of conflict theory, it is easy to establish how such concept can provide a good explanation for domestic and family violence. Marx’s concept of capitalism and the economic system, and Weber’s concept of power and authority are easily identified in matters of domestic and family violence, where the male, and often the abuser, will proclaim all power over their partner, their income and the household, and leave the female, often the victim, to lead a life of abuse both physical and non-physical at the hands of their abuser. There are many different ways through which domestic and family violence can be viewed and defined, however Conflict Theory seems to be able to provide the best explanation in regards to it.

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