Violence particularly against the female partner in a marriage or defacto relationship has become an acceptable way of behaviour in some quarters. A recent Federal Government survey showed that 17% of women consider that it is acceptable for their partner to violently abuse them and 22% of men consider it their right.

In over 90% of reported cases of domestic violence it is the woman who suffers. Unfortunately the violence is often carried out in front of the children with the emphasis on the right of the male to act violently towards the woman.

Boys can grow up believing that the wife beating is part of acceptable behaviour and the girl may grow up to accept this male right to inflict pain and suffering.

Stress within the relationship is the main cause of family violence. Financial problems appear to be a factor in producing stress. Financial considerations will often prevent the woman from leaving the relationship and the worry of just how the break up will affect the children will often bind a woman to a violent man. Self esteem can be lowered and the leaving becomes harder.

Violence can take many forms; yelling abuse, threatening actions, smashing nearby objects, pushing, shoving, hitting, and sexual violence.

Education of the younger generation is the main method of lessening the occurrence of domestic violence. Young boys should be taught to respect the girls and girls themselves should demand that respect.

If involved in a situation of repeated family violence, the woman should make a determined effort to leave.

Marriage counselling is often of no avail. You should approach your family doctor for advice once the position becomes hopeless. In the case of an acute crisis you can consult the Community Health and Welfare page in the telephone directory. The Salvation Army have a Crisis Care telephone line which is available 24 hours a day.