INTRODUCTION|2
A M B A S S A D O R P R O G R A M
C Y C
E
B R
A K E
M
I S S I O
Healthy relationships are built on a foundation
of
good
communication,
mutual
respect,
honesty,
trust,
and
equality.
Though
disagreements may arise, the presence of these
positive qualities helps partners to compromise
and find solutions. Conversely, unhealthy
relationships are characterised by behaviours
that lack mutual respect for one another. It is
important to note that not all unhealthy
relationships are abusive, but they can become
so if left unchecked.
Here are some common signs of an unhealthy
relationship: Poor communication - Dishonesty -
Jealousy - Manipulation - Criticism - Disrespect -
Frequent arguments - Controlling behaviour.
Domestic violence is a behaviour constructed
based on gender, with women being the
overwhelming victims globally and in Australia.
In Western societies, cultural norms shaped by
patriarchy
and
misogyny
teach
men
to
dominate in relationships, equating masculinity
with
violent
behaviour
and
discouraging
vulnerability and emotional expression.
Domestic Violence and Gender
The
socially
constructed
idea
of
gender
behaviour increases the risk of violence in
domestic relationships, regardless of sexual
orientation. Men and individuals belonging to
the
LGBTIQ
community
also
experience
intimate partner violence, with studies showing
that in most cases, the perpetrator is male.
A health and wellbeing survey of 5, 476 LGBTIQ
respondents by the Australian Research Centre
for Health and Sexuality found that 28% of male-
identifying individuals and 41% of female-
identifying individuals reported being part of an
abusive relationship.
A Look at Unhealthy Behaviour
Stress is a natural part of human life and
manifests itself in different ways and people use
various methods to deal with it.
Instances of domestic violence may be higher
in families facing severe financial crises. For
example, those who are at the verge of losing
their homes will be experiencing high levels of
stress.
People often rely on past experiences to
manage stress, utilising techniques they believe
will work. However, some may resort to
physically or mentally harming their partners to
alleviate their stress. It's important to hold
individuals accountable for their actions if they
resort to violent or unhealthy behaviour.
Domestic violence should never be normalised
as an acceptable way to manage stress.
Effects of Domestic Violence
Domestic
violence
can
cause
deep
and
permanent pain and trauma in victims, resulting
in emotional and psychological trauma such as
shame, anger, depression, anxiety, suicidal
thoughts, and disrupted mental wellbeing.
Victims may also turn to substance abuse and
alcoholism to cope. Domestic violence can also
lead to loss of home and physical injuries,
disabilities, and death for the victim.
Effects on the family
Domestic abuse has long-term and detrimental
effects on the family members of the victims as
well as the abuser. These effects include long-
term
conflicts,
destruction
of
properties,
emotional and financial difficulties for family
members, frequent shifting of homes, physical
and mental trauma for children, loss of hope for
positive and safe relationships, and a tendency
to engage in substance abuse and alcoholism.