The Link Between Domestic Violence and Education

As Vox Culture transitions from addressing domestic violence in 2014 to putting a spotlight on education, Vox Reseach Coordinator, Doubra Goulden, explores the question: What is the link between domestic violence and education?

Education is cited as the single biggest transformative factor for the individual, the Nation and society (UN Women Executive Director, Hanoi, 29 March 2014). However, breaking away from the conditioning of domestic violence and coming to a new and different reality has not always been a smooth transition. In terms of the link between domestic violence and education, studies have been inconclusive in linking domestic violence to low intelligence and or that educational attainment is key in escaping domestic violence. However in recognition that some students live in homes where domestic violence may be prevalent, schools have implemented educational programs focused on this issue.

Source: Women's UN Report Network

One such program was “I Wish the hitting would Stop”, a Domestic Violence Education program introduced to elementary school students in two school districts in the Midwest. This initiative was borne out of the assumption that domestic violence or extreme stress in childhood may affect a child’s neurocognitive development which may lead to lower intelligence (Karestan C. K. et al).  Correlational studies documenting the harmful effects of extreme stress on the brain suggest that developmental programs aimed at reducing domestic violence may have beneficial effects on children's cognitive development.

In addition the creation of UN Women by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010 was facilitated by the need to address violence against women and girls, promote equality and empower women through education as well as several self-help programs. It is hoped that an awareness of basic human rights may empower women to participate in social enterprises they once thought impossible. Empowerment accelerates social change. Thus empowering women through education may enhance their ability to leave an abusive relationship.

 On the contrary, results from a study carried out by two researchers at Sam Houston State university, (supported by The Crime Victims' Institute, TX)suggest that where both male and females were employed, the odds of victimization were more than two times higher compared to when the male was the only breadwinner in the partnership. The results suggest that female employment may challenge male authority and power in a relationship hence the escalation in violence (Cortney A. Franklin Tasha A. Menaker 2012).

Indeed as domestic violence is predominantly gender based arguably a woman’s educational attainment and or financial independence may not intimidate an abuser. In certain cultures security, financial stability and “keeping the family unit together” outweigh the need to escape domestic violence and abuse. Some women are even encouraged to stay in an abusive relationship where a husband is the sole bread winner to maintain the Male “sense of self” .

 As domestic violence usually takes place in the confines’ of the home it cannot be said for certain that those who live in the suburbs’ or a better environment suffer less abuse. Where a woman is conditioned to be subservient at all times they may  accept abuse as the norm thus signs of abuse may be hidden for a long time or until a tragedy occurs. Studies do not have a clear indication that highly educated adults may be less exposed to domestic violence than those who are uneducated hence only assumptions can be made. Further research could perhaps look at the severity or frequency of abuse of educated women compared to women who are less empowered.

Nonetheless, it is acknowledged that education has a role in preventing and changing attitudes to violence against women and young adults. For some student schools may be the only sources of support. Therefore through education schools can work together to create, raise awareness and build resilience at a systemic level.

In conclusion, the causes / factors that lead to or influence domestic violence cuts across age, gender, alcohol/drug abuse, educational attainment, childhood trauma, and so on suggesting no overall consistency. What is consistent in research findings however is that women are more susceptible to domestic violence than their male counterparts. With a phony remorse followed by a brief period of calm victims of domestic violence continue to think that their situation will improve. Where government policies and practices match the enthusiasm to educate and alleviate recurring problems associated with domestic violence progress is achievable ; as more and more women take up vocations, job positions normally reserved for men and advocate for gender equality.

Sources:

Bachelet, UN Women Executive Director Michelle. "International Women’s Day 2011: Time to Make the Promise of Equality a Reality." (2011).

Dahle, Thorvald O., and Carol A. Archbold. "“I Wish the Hitting Would Stop...” An Assessment of a Domestic Violence Education Program for Elementary Students." Journal of interpersonal violence 29.13 (2014): 2497-2508.

Koenig, Michael A., et al. "Individual and contextual determinants of domestic violence in North India." American journal of public health 96.1 (2006): 132.

Karamagi, Charles AS, et al. "Intimate partner violence against women in eastern Uganda: implications for HIV prevention." BMC public health 6.1 (2006): 284.

Mullings, Janet L., Deborah J. Hartley, and James W. Marquart. "Exploring the relationship between alcohol use, childhood maltreatment, and treatment needs among female prisoners." Substance use & misuse 39.2 (2004): 277-305.

Patterson, Susan. I Wish the Hitting Would Stop: A Workbook for Children Living in Violent Homes: a Facilitator's Guide. Red Flag Green Flag Resources, Rape and Abuse Crisis Center, 1993.

Victor, Ogbeide O. "Violet without purple: The colour of spousal violence in Neshani Andreas The Purple Violet of Oshaantu." International Journal of English and Literature 4.3 (2013): 53-59.

http://www.unwomen.org

- Doubra Goulden, Vox Research Coordinator