Domestic violence

Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. It is wide spread in all countries, cultures, social classes, is not influenced by age, race, ethnic or religious orientation, sexual identity. We will learn about the state of art in some European and extra-European countries focusing on Italy. An interesting aspect is to point out differences between myth and reality describing details of personality traits and behavioral patterns of the abuser. The cycle of domestic violence and the cycle of separation are two further important characteristics to be known, as well the reactions and mental processes of the victims and of the groups at risk. The chapter about surviving strategies and consequences suffered by the victims will complete the first part of the presentation. In the second part we will speak about the UN database; in December 2006, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted a comprehensive resolution calling for an intensification of efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women and requesting the Secretary-General to establish a coordinated database on the extent, nature and consequences of all forms of violence against women, and on the impact and effectiveness of policies and programs for, including best practices in, combating such violence. We will learn about some national realities including Spain, Philippines, Austria, Malaysia, Denmark and Nepal. A quick final description of the current state in Turkey, Hungary Morocco and Italy will inform us about possible discrepancies due to cultural, geographical, political and religious differences.