Domestic Violence – The Silent Epidemic
Domestic violence continues to harm our communities, yet it often remains hidden. Every day, I witness the deep impact it has on women—both past and present. It’s time to bring this issue into the light and speak up.
Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics in Australia
Did you know:
- 1 in 3 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from someone they know.
- 1 in 5 women over 18 have been stalked in their lifetime.
- 1 in 5 women have faced harassment in their workplace. (Source: White Ribbon)
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence includes violence, abuse, and intimidation between people in an intimate relationship. The abuser uses control and fear to dominate the victim, violating their basic human rights.
Forms of Domestic Violence:
- Emotional and verbal abuse
- Financial and psychological control
- Physical and sexual assault
- Isolation from family and friends
- Restricting religious or cultural practices
To illustrate the reality of domestic violence, here’s Sharon’s story.
Sharon, in her 50s, came to see me feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and anxious. She wanted to regain her health and energy to care for her aging parents, support her three teenage sons, and maintain her part-time job.
During our sessions, she revealed a painful truth—one of her teenage sons had pushed her into a metal pole, cracking her rib, simply because she enforced an internet curfew. Even worse, her husband justified the act, blaming her for “provoking” it.
This is not okay.
Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence
Domestic violence isn’t just physical—it manifests in many ways. Here are some common forms:
- Emotional abuse: Name-calling, mind games, put-downs, silent treatment, excessive jealousy.
- Social abuse: Isolation, public humiliation, controlling movements, monitoring phone calls.
- Financial abuse: Controlling money, forcing debt, gambling away assets, withholding financial resources.
- Physical abuse: Hitting, pushing, intimidation, property damage, forced physical labor.
- Sexual abuse: Coerced acts, humiliation, non-consensual demands, sexual harassment.
More recently, domestic violence has been increasing among teenage boys, especially those addicted to violent video games. Exposure to aggression without consequences can normalize disrespectful and harmful behavior.
Preventing Domestic Violence Starts with Us
Violence against women begins with a lack of respect. When we excuse harmful behavior—whether by saying “it’s not that bad” or blaming the victim—we allow it to grow. Violence is never acceptable.
Victims often realize, in hindsight, that warning signs were present early on. It’s our responsibility to recognize these signs before they escalate.
As adults, we have the greatest influence on young minds. By challenging disrespect and addressing harmful attitudes, we can break the cycle. Teaching our children about respect and consent is just as important as warning our daughters to be cautious.
Creating a Future Free from Domestic Violence
The research is clear—violence against women starts with early attitudes and behaviors passed down through generations. Changing the statistics begins with changing ourselves.
- Parents, teachers, coaches, and employers play a crucial role in shaping the next generation’s beliefs.
- Small, consistent changes in how we speak and act make a lasting impact.
- The way we think influences the words we use, and our words shape the world around us.
If we want a future free from gender violence and inequality, we must start now. Reflect on your own attitudes, challenge harmful beliefs, and set an example for the next generation.
Together, we can break the cycle.
Try reading this as well Fear and Anxiety Difference and share with us your experience!
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