Reflections on domestic violence: some contributions to (re)think the violence against children, adolescents and women

Abstract

This article discusses the topic of domestic violence on the basis of a theoretical and investigative dimension. It follows the path of the main current debates on domestic violence, which victimizes children, adolescents, women and the elderly. In fact, this article is a rereading of this phenomenon through the data collected by national and international research, through an interdisciplinary view and on the basis of the main theoretical issues that are relevant for its comprehension. It aims at pointing out some theoretical and practical aspects that are important for the knowledge, understanding and action of all persons who are interested and/or involved in domestic violence. It is a globalized phenomenon that does not have geopolitical and economic boarders; it does not make distinctions of age, race, gender or creed. However, it causes more serious consequences when it affects black and poor women (children, adolescents, adults or elderly). It is an (in)visible phenomenon which in most cases requires external agents who are capable of confronting and combating it. This leads to interdisciplinary ways of comprehension due to the complexity of the phenomenon. Since research in this field (domestic violence versus victims and aggressors) is relatively new (’80s), it is indispensable to promote an investigation that reveals the meaning of this phenomenon and the forms of resistance in the realm of family relationships. Domestic violence generates human and social needs that require competent and qualified responses from society, the family and the State. Citizens, institutions and professionals should be more sensitized, better informed and prepared for actions of prevention and intervention.

Key words: domestic violence, family, qualitative research.