The Hidden Crisis: Shocking Cases of Domestic Violence and What We’re Missing

A Worldwide View of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence continues to be a worldwide issue impacting individuals and communities near and far. While we may only consider our understanding of the issue and its impact on our inner circles or community, men and women's experiences within this subject are very complex and serious. Here, I'll give a voice to some recent cases that show the ongoing urgent need regarding the consideration that domestic violence issues deserve. Only when we bring these issues to light on a broader scale can the world see the need for relevant solutions.

Outrageous Cases of Abuse in Australia and the UK

• Conviction in Australia: Joseph John Vought, a 30-year-old mining truck driver from The Entrance, was convicted on nine domestic violence charges, including multiple counts of intentionally choking his pregnant girlfriend. The assaults spanned their relationship, involving violent threats and physical abuse. Vought was found guilty in his absence, and a warrant for his arrest was issued. Daily Telegraph

• Matricide in the UK: A report by the Femicide Census revealed that over the past 15 years, more than 170 mothers in the UK have been killed by their sons, accounting for nearly 10% of all women killed by men during that period. Mental ill health, substance abuse, and lack of affordable housing leading to prolonged cohabitation were identified as major contributors. The report calls for specific measures to address matricide and support victims. The Guardian

• Triple Murder in the UK: Kyle Clifford admitted to the triple murder of his ex-girlfriend Louise Hunt, her mother Carol Hunt, and her sister Hannah Hunt using a crossbow in their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire. Clifford's abusive behavior escalated to this tragic outcome, highlighting the extreme dangers associated with domestic violence. The Scottish Sun

Nature vs. Nurture? Factors that Impact Abuse

These cases illustrate that domestic violence is not just an intimate partner issue but often also a family issue. There has been a rise in the visibility of cases where abuse has been directed at parents or siblings within the household. Uncovering abusive traits can sometimes happen at a very young age. Some hereditary and societal issues fuel this development.

For instance:

• Mental Health: A significant number of domestic violence cases involve individuals with untreated mental health issues. Providing accessible mental health care and early intervention can be pivotal in prevention.

• Substance Abuse: The correlation between substance abuse and domestic violence suggests the need for integrated support systems addressing both issues simultaneously.

• Economic and Housing Instability: Financial stress and lack of affordable housing can exacerbate tensions within households. Policies aimed at economic support and housing stability may alleviate some contributing factors to domestic violence.

We cannot address the problem if we aren't talking about it. We as individuals, can heal ourselves and address issues within our families and communities. However, the attention that issues of domestic violence deserve goes well past us. Legal frameworks and policies offer support to help prevent these issues on a broader scale. While some arguably good policies in the U.S. are in place regarding domestic violence, I still believe there is more that could be done.

Domestic violence is a complex issue that is influenced by many factors, making it difficult to develop a one-sweep solution that speaks to all of the issues going on. Every week, I'll bring more current events to light for us to consider. The idea is to bring awareness and a space for us to consider solutions or how we might adjust to remain safe and to give our families the support and tools they need to lessen the impacts of abuse close to home.

The majority of people who have been abused once go on to deal with ongoing issues of abuse throughout their lives. Considering the underlying issues of abuse and the variety of different solutions to combat it could be the path forward for enlightenment and effective prevention close to home.

With care,

Nicole Brittney