Vézina and Hébert (2007), Essay Example

There are certainly a number of risk factors for becoming a victim of domestic violence. As Vézina and Hébert (2007) explained, for young women these factors include living in a broken home, and having less involvement in religious activities (p. 47). Living in a broken home lends credence to learning theory, the idea that patterns of violence and victimization beget more of the same: just as these patterns can turn victims or children in the house into abusers, so too can they produce potential victims. The reasoning is not difficult to see: young women growing up in an environment of domestic violence perpetrated by their fathers against their mothers may accept violence by men against women as normal. Less involvement in religious activities speaks to social isolation and marginalization: individuals who are active in such communities may receive effective social support that defuses the dangers of such violent relationships (p. 47).

Other risk factors may include proclivities for depression and low self-esteem, as well as attitudes such as victim-blaming and negative conceptions about sexuality (Vézina & Hébert, 2007, pp. 48-49). As a consequence of all of this, mental health concerns should be prioritized in helping victims. As Susan Still’s story demonstrates, victims often feel powerless, trapped, and extremely fearful. Providing psychological support is therefore crucial, to help victims become survivors, and take back their lives.