What’s in the news?

Go to the following website to read some myths and facts about domestic violence - http://www.soundvision.com/Info/domesticviolence/myths.asp.

What do the experts say?

“This statement is a direct quotation from an article written in 1980 by three well-known experts in the field of family violence (Straus, Gelles, and Steinmetz). Part of the reason for the contrast between people’s views of the family and the reality of violence relates to the social construction of reality: The social reality of the loving affectionate family was maintained, despite the fact that family violence was common. There are three major types of family violence: marital violence, child abuse, and abuse of the elderly. One of the most positive steps toward reducing family violence has been bringing the issue into the open. This has enabled us to concentrate resources on solving this problem.”

What do you think?

Note down your answers to the following questions and discuss them in class.

1. What are the major types of family violence?
2. What are some of the causes of domestic violence?
3. Why do so many women stay with their abusive spouses or partners?
4. What can be done to reduce family violence?

Where do you stand?

Now you’ve had a chance hear other people’s views, take the Online Poll.

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