Sample Answer
Female Perpetrators of Domestic Violence
Introduction
Domestic violence is often perceived as male-perpetrated, yet research shows that women can also instigate abuse, including physical, emotional, and psychological harm towards partners and children. Despite its prevalence, female-perpetrated domestic violence is frequently underreported due to societal stigma, gender stereotypes, and legal frameworks that historically focus on male offenders (Hines & Douglas, 2010). This essay examines the phenomenon, explores government policies, social factors, and diversity issues, and highlights the mental health consequences of such abuse.
Female-Perpetrated Domestic Violence and Policy
Government policies, such as the UK’s Domestic Abuse Act 2021, provide frameworks to protect victims but often reflect a gendered perspective, assuming males as perpetrators and females as victims. This can create gaps in legal protection for male victims or children abused by mothers. Data suggests that male victims underreport incidents due to shame, fear of not being believed, or societal expectations, leaving a significant portion of abuse unaddressed (National Domestic Abuse Helpline, 2022).
There is no specific policy targeting female instigators of domestic violence, which highlights the need for gender-neutral approaches in safeguarding legislation. Effective policies must recognise that domestic violence transcends gender and requires interventions that protect all victims equally.
Social and Cultural Factors
Gender and Race: Social expectations and gender roles often silence male victims and minorities. Cultural stereotypes may minimise or dismiss abuse by women, particularly when male victims belong to ethnic minority groups, compounding underreporting.
Sectional and Diversity Issues: Intersectionality plays a role, as women from different socioeconomic or religious backgrounds may face additional pressures or justification for abuse. Honour-based violence, though more commonly associated with male perpetrators, can involve women enforcing cultural norms that result in abuse against children or spouses (Gill, 2009).
Religion and Honour Killing: In some extreme cases, female family members participate in abuse or coercion under the guise of religious or honour-based practices. These acts, often unreported, contribute to psychological trauma and perpetuate cycles of violence.
