The Causes of Domestic Violence

Psychologists and researchers have always been interested in a way to adequately explain why it is that so many intimate human relationships should evolve into the violence and barbarism of domestic violence. There are many theories that have taken shape over time that attempts to explain domestic violence. There are psychological explanations, social explanations and others. There is, however, no consensus on what might be the primary cause of domestic violence. Let us look at some of the scientific explanations that exists today that help explain this part of human behavior.

Explanations from a social standpoint
The resource theory of domestic violence, propounded by William Goode, these that women, being tied down in the marriage with children to take care of, are financially dependent on the marriage for the well-being of the children. When children come into marriage there are few options that remain open, as independent choices would deprive the children of the means of any reasonably comfortable home. Couples in whom financial power is shared, happen to be able to resort to violence less often than couples where the financial power is concentrated in the hands of one.

Financial difficulties in a household are known to have the man in the relationship react violently with feelings of inadequacy. Since men feel that arranging for adequate finances is their responsibility, failing to do this cuts a man to the quick. He responds to this with a desperate attempt at reassertion of authority, with violence.

Patterns of violence in a person may also arise from learned behavior. With so many households in the country reporting problems with domestic violence, there are millions of children who are growing up watching regular examples of violence set before them. Children could learn this kind of behavior and use ant in their own lives.

Explanation from a psychological standpoint
Explanations of domestic violence that appeal to psychological causes place their focus on the mental character of the perpetrator. Psychological profile of such a character includes a pattern of outbursts of violent emotion, and inability to control oneself, and poor self-image. Mental disorders and other personality disorders such as psychopathy are also thought to be very prominent factors. It is professional opinion today that abusive men suffer from a borderline personality disorder. But the borderline personality finding is today considered a little anachronistic, a little out of date.

Behavioral trouble

It is also thought that domestic violence comes about when a party to a relationship decides to find a way to gain the upper hand, out of an unpleasant desire for power. This kind of scheming is encouraged and men by social setups where that man is given a better sense of privilege. Endemic male Chauvinism, is one of the most powerful factors at play in a domestic violence situation. But violent domestic situations are often exacerbated by drug abuse, alcohol abuse and poverty.

Linus Orakles
http://www.authorclub.info/