Family Violence: An International Perspective

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Virtually every country in the world has been touched in some way by family violence. A vast number of women and children are subjected each day to violence within their family homes, the setting where they should feel the safest. Family violence crosses the boundaries of sex, age, social class, education, and race (1). Statistics show that approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide will be affected by family violence within her lifetime (1). Violence has a major impact on one's physical, social and mental well-being. Additionally, the health related costs connected to family violence in Canada account for 1.5 billion dollars per year (1). This number accounts for short-term medical problems, long-term treatment for psychological issues, lost time at work, as well as the use of women's shelters (1). In view of these statistics, it is evident that domestic violence is a major concern across the globe. Accordingly, this paper will examine the magnitude of family violence here in Canada, and will compare and contrast the situation with the United States, Australia, as well as India. In addition, solutions to the domestic violence problem in Canada will also be addressed.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

Although there is no universally accepted definition of family violence, for the purpose of this paper, the definition proposed by Health Canada will be utilized. Health Canada states that, "Violence is any act that results, or is likely to result, in physical, sexual, and/or psychological harm or suffering to a person." This definition also consists of threats of violence, as well as coercion (1). Furthermore, the "term family" violence will be employed because when a child witnesses his or her mother being abused, the child is als...

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...the hardest goals to accomplish, as cultural beliefs and values are often set in stone and cannot be changed instantaneously. Changing rigid gender stereotypes could take many years, so it is imperative that solutions be implemented over the long-term. Women should continue to be educated, and people should work towards a greater share in household responsibilities among families (24). A more holistic approach is needed, and social support for rural women should also be enhanced (24). Furthermore, it is essential that responses to the matter are culturally sensitive; for instance, divorce is often not a viable option for many women in India who fear being stigmatized by their communities. Overall, researchers should continue to conduct further studies in order to understand the roots of family violence in India, and work towards eradicating the issue altogether.

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