Domestic Violence: How Do You Determine Whether Intervening Is Necessary

As a society when we talk about domestic violence, a lot is said about how the victim should be made aware of symptoms that help recognize that they are in fact being abused, when to seek help and other aspects. While this is a crucial factor, as individuals who are part of the social set-up, it is also important to recognize when we should be intervening if we notice something strange.

The thing is, given the circumstances and the possible situation, where the abuser and the victim are tied in marriage or a similar relationship, a lot of times intervening or whether one should intervene comes with doubts. There’s always that question of- are we invading someone’s private space? Is this a personal matter? So on and so forth.

While some of these questions might be relevant, it is also important to trust ones’ instincts and be aware enough to know when something does not feel right. Also, bear in mind that the victim will find it hard to approach for help on their own, so it is also a moral responsibility to take the first step and offer help and support.

Coming back to the question of how to determine whether intervening is necessary, keep an eye out for these symptoms:

Emotional:

-If someone seems too anxious to please their partner or go along with everything they say.

-Get checked on incessantly while away from their partner, via harassing and frequent calls during which they seem afraid or explaining too much.

-Talk actively or submissively about the partners jealously or possessiveness but also defend them at the same time.

Physical:

-Have injury marks but can never really explain how they got them. Make excuses about ‘falling’ or “slipping’ etc.

-Are absent from work, social occasions or other gatherings often without relevant reasons.

-Trying to cover up bruises and is in denial.

-Has no access to common modes of communication or regular contact with family and friends.

For anyone with a keen eye and awareness about violence against women, it is not so hard to recognize the symptoms of abuse. It is just a matter of keeping an eye out for the so-called ‘red flags’.

If one does come across someone with most or even a few of these indicative symptoms, it is a social and moral responsibility to offer help and check on them. While approaching this topic might not be easy it is absolutely imperative and worth it to try.

It is upon us as individuals to take an active stand about this social malaise. While it is ok to keep asking questions about what is being done, it is also important to understand that every small step counts. Only then can this monumental problem be controlled and eliminated. For more information visit http://www.bellbajao.org