DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: A GLOBAL THREAT TO HUMAN DIGNITY

Abstract

This work stems from the basic self-motivation to disabuse many minds of systemic tendency of spousal abuse which commonly is the brain-child of gender injustice. The objective is to expose the menace of domestic violence. It will also propose a way forward, with regard to Buber’s relational approach, to facilitate a web for coexistence and habitation among spouses. Most violence is within the confines of the home, and sometimes devoid of any physical contact, making it difficult for any third party to discern. This social problem has now come to be conceptualized with the term ‘domestic violence’. Domestic violence has been perpetrated in various forms all over the world and has assumed a global concern. It is a violent confrontation among family or household members, involving emotional or verbal abuse, denial of access to resources or money, restraint of normal activities or freedom, including isolation from friends and family, sexual coercion or assault, threats to kill or to harm, and physical intimidation or attacks. Although men are sometimes abused by their female partners, but there is no doubt that women are mostly victims. The nature of domestic violence has been a tragic element in the evolution of human dignity and is entirely subjective and lacking in mutuality. In many cultures, domestic violence has been an accepted fact of life because one may think it is difficult to solve. In recent years, it has been viewed as a criminal problem. This research work discusses the forms, implications, causes, and the devastating effects of domestic violence on its victims and on human dignity. Preventive and remedial solution is proffered as a way forward in abolishing this ugly phenomenon. The works reveals that victims of domestic violence experience both short-term and long-lasting effects. Physical injuries can range from bruises, cuts and bums to broken bones, stab wounds, miscarriages and death.