Section B Question 4

Lam Xiujing
Lee Jia Yi
Roger Toh
Tan Shing Chian

Question
Discuss three reasons why the number of
domestic violence cases is still on the rise
and suggest ways to prevent domestic
violence.

Introduction
Domestic violence is defined as :
A pattern of abusive behaviour in any
relationship that is used by one partner to gain
or maintain power and control over another
intimate partner.

Types : physical, sexual, emotional, economic,

psychological
Includes : intimidate, manipulate, humiliate,
isolate, frighten, terrorize, threaten, blame, hurt

Reason 1 Loophole in Domestic

Violence Act 1996
DVA assigns women to a lower status in
family and society.
Women are not perceived as autonomous
individuals capable of making decision
appropriately to their own lives.
They continue to be recognized in term of
their relationship with others, either as
mothers or wives.
Ineffectiveness and ambiguity of DVA lead
to the rise of domestic violence cases.

Reason 2 Reluctance to
Report
Victims feel embarrassed to describe what
they faced.
It is a tragedy for victims to recall their
experience.
Victims are threatened not to disclose their
encounter.
Their silence keeps these domestic violence
cases hidden in the society.
They choose to stay in that relationship due
for the sake of their children.

Reason 3- The Drawbacks of

Litigation
If cases are brought to the court,
i)
Lengthy and complex process of hearing
ii)
Claimants do not necessarily win the case.
iii) Financial burden.
iv) No privacy.
v) Victims may undergo depression and
stress.

Way 1- Education and

Awareness

Subject like social studies promotes gender

equality.
Teaches students to respect the difference
between men and women.

Education also eliminates gender

discrimination and stereotype that women
are subordinates to men.
Campaigns from WCC, AWAM, SIS, and
SWWS.
Raise awareness in the society about this hidden
crime, womens rights and ways to overcome.

Way 2 Be brave to take

Initiative

The society should be the eyes and ears to

overcome domestic violence
By being sensitive towards the surrounding and
lodge police report immediately if witness any.

The victims of domestic violence should be

brave to claim their rights in order to break
the cycle of domestic violence.
Despite the obstacles faced.
self reputation
threats

Conclusion

Immediate actions should be taken to resolve

domestic violence to halt the continuation of
this phenomenon in the society.

Men and women should respect each other

and work hand in hand to bring domestic
violence cases to an end as this issue affects
both genders adversely and it requires both
genders commitment to break the cycle of
domestic violence.