March 11, 2021
By Francesca Muravin
Staff Writer
A developing world crisis has become a factor in the increase in domestic violence. Domestic violence is a battle more than you would think, becoming much larger in scale by the days. Ever since the beginning of the pandemic, whether it be in America or Europe, this has become an increasing issue for many.
Hotlines all around the world are experiencing many more reports of home abuse than ever before. Domestic violence is typically the abuse of a spouse or partner within the home. The rules of quarantine have given rise to this form of abuse. Staying home all day opens all types of doors to abuse within a living space.
The biggest signs of domestic violence in a home are not letting you eat or sleep, physically attacking you, ruining your belongings, trapping you from leaving and throwing objects. Domestic violence can also include verbal abuse and sexual abuse. This can happen in a relationship or even just a family household. Anyone regardless of age can experience this as well.
Guidance counselor Mrs. Stacy said domestic violence comes in many different forms.
“Domestic violence is like a pattern of abuse that can be physical, emotional, psychological and anything along those terms,” Stacy said.
She said it has been more recognized now that the public has to stay home due to the virus.
“In general, [domestic violence] has been a concern when we transitioned to remote learning for many people across the country,” Stacy said.
With that being said, many students found school almost a “safe haven” at times from different types of abuse at home. If domestic violence were ever reported on behalf of any student, schools are responsible for contacting authorities.
Stacy said schools are also responsible for contacting resources when they notice trouble.
“If domestic violence was brought to our attention as a school, the first thing we would have to do is notify the [Division of Child Protection and Permanency], so that they can know and help the situation and also provide domestic violence resources and any agencies we have access to. We would also notify the police because the police handle and are trained to handle domestic violence cases.”
She said offering resources and trying to help someone you know struggling with domestic violence is important to get them to safety or to leave the relationship they may be in. Regarding more education based on domestic violence and forms of abuse, Stacy said people should learn more.
“Domestic violence is like a pattern of abuse that can be physical, emotional, psychological and anything along those terms.”
Although some classes touch on the basics of this sensitive topic, it would always be better if more students were educated to protect themselves and others around them. This year at LHS, there has been more attention brought to other matters like emotional learning and the effects of online learning.
Stacy said the STIGMA-free campaign she is in charge of this year is meant to provide help to students with mental illness.
Mental health is something easily affected by domestic violence. Bringing awareness and overall alertness about domestic violence can make a positive difference. Checking up on peers and family is important as well. Now, more than ever, domestic violence has affected different people in different ways faster than before.
