Understanding and Addressing the Drivers of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) are pervasive crimes that affect individuals and families across the globe. In the US and elsewhere, this drives a significant need for local domestic violence shelters and emergency shelters for women and children experiencing abuse. Understanding the main drivers behind this violence and how communities can take action to reduce it is crucial for stopping domestic violence. 

General Factors that Drive Domestic Violence
It’s important to note that ultimately, the causes of domestic violence are individual abusers and the choices they make. However, there are also broad risk factors for domestic violence that can contribute to its overall prevalence at community and national levels. Mitigating or eliminating these can be highly effective ways to stop domestic violence.

Gender Inequality
One of the most significant drivers of domestic violence is gender inequality. Societal norms and structures that perpetuate male dominance and female subordination — as well as discrimination against and resulting vulnerabilities among non-cisgender and non-heterosexual communities — all contribute to the prevalence of DV and IPV. They create environments where violence against women and marginalized groups is more likely to be accepted, tolerated, or excused.

Poor Conflict Resolution Skills
For a complex array of reasons, people who don’t benefit from healthy cognitive development as children or don’t learn to use effective non-violent conflict resolution strategies can be more likely to resort to violent coercion in a number of contexts. This often applies to intimate partner and family relationships as well.

Insufficient Gun Control
Uncontrolled, unvetted access to firearms also significantly increases the risk of lethal domestic violence. Research indicates that the presence of a gun in domestic violence situations escalates the risk of homicide, as over half of all intimate partner homicides are committed with guns. Effective gun control laws and policies can help reduce the risk of fatal outcomes in DV and IPV cases.

Because gun ownership and control is heavily politicized today, some state governments are reacting by increasing access to guns and bullets. For example, the states of Alabama, Texas, and Oklahoma — Oklahoma being the state with the highest rates of domestic violence in the nation — will soon be installing ammunition vending machines in grocery stores. This will make it more convenient than ever for abusers to access ammunition, and it may also teach children that buying bullets is of no more consequence than buying candy, snacks, or soda. 

Legal System Failures
Legal systems that fail to adequately protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable contribute to the persistence of domestic violence. In many cases and parts of the US, legal loopholes and inadequate enforcement of protective orders leave survivors vulnerable to continued abuse. Strengthening related legal frameworks and ensuring their consistent enforcement is critical to protecting survivors and preventing further violence.

Factors That Can Increase Domestic Violence Rates

Financial Insecurity
Economic instability and poverty are closely linked to higher rates of domestic violence. Financial stress can exacerbate tensions within households, leading to increased conflict and violence. Survivors in economically disadvantaged situations may also find it more difficult to leave abusive relationships due to financial dependency on their abusers.

Seasonal Concerns
Certain times of the year, such as the holiday season or summer, can see spikes in domestic violence incidents. Increased stress, financial pressures, drinking, and more time spent at home can contribute to these seasonal spikes.

Social Isolation
Isolation from support networks can increase the risk of domestic violence. Perpetrators often use isolation as a tactic to control and manipulate their victims, making it harder for them to seek help. Social isolation has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for accessible support services during major crises.

How to Stop Domestic Violence at the Community Level
There are many ways communities can reduce rates of DV and IPV and provide effective, meaningful assistance to survivors. Here are a few of them.

Educating the Public
Education is a powerful tool in preventing domestic violence. Public awareness campaigns can help challenge harmful norms about gender roles, relationship dynamics, and conflict resolution. They can also inform the public about the signs of abuse and available resources. This can create safer communities in which violence as a whole is less likely to occur.

Strengthening Community Ties
Building strong community networks can help people prevent and respond to domestic violence. Neighbors, friends, and family members can be vital sources of support for those experiencing abuse. Encouraging community involvement and fostering a sense of collective responsibility can make it easier for victims to reach out for help and for communities to intervene effectively.

Advocating for Policy Changes
Advocacy for policy change is essential to address the systemic issues contributing to domestic violence. This includes working to enact stronger gun control laws, better enforcement of protective orders, and increased funding for survivor support services. Grassroots movements and community-based advocacy can drive significant changes in legislation and public policy, ultimately reducing rates of DV and IPV.

Supporting Survivors
Providing comprehensive support for survivors is essential in reducing domestic violence. This includes ensuring access to safe shelters, counseling, legal aid, financial assistance, and support for long-term independence. Community organizations play a crucial role in offering these services and creating safe spaces for survivors to rebuild their lives.

Domestic and intimate partner violence is a human rights violation driven by complex factors. By understanding these drivers and implementing comprehensive community-based strategies, we can create safer communities in which abuse and violence can be reduced or eradicated.

Stop Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence With Project Woman
Project Woman is dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by providing resources to protect, educate, and empower. We offer a wide range of programs and services to support those affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. Our first line of defense for survivors experiencing emergencies is our crisis center. This center provides a safe home for those fleeing domestic and intimate partner violence, sexual assault, rape, or human trafficking. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, don’t wait. Call our 24-Hour Crisis Line at 1-800-634-9893.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about the programs and services available, please contact us.

Project Woman offers many ways to help survivors. Financial contributions help provide safety, shelter, and trauma-informed services. Donations of items on our wish list or posted on our Facebook page provide survivors with necessities and comfort. We also regularly post volunteer opportunities on our site. All gifts of money, items, and time — no matter how large or small — make a profound difference in people’s lives! Thank you for caring.