Understanding the Core Theories of Domestic Violence

Theories of Violence in the Family

Early Biological Theories

Early theories attempted to link the abuse of women to biological factors, sometimes referencing figures like Kempe. These theories suggested that abuse might be due to:

1. Violation of an organic nature (e.g., trauma).
2. Viral factors.
3. Substandard genetic makeup or imperfection.

These biological explanations are generally not accepted today as primary causes of domestic violence.

Psychological Theories of Abuse

This perspective focuses on the psychological basis of violence, suggesting that the aggressor may have serious psychological deficiencies or maladaptive ways of resolving conflicts. Psychological theories also consider the victim's personality, suggesting certain traits might make them more vulnerable.

The idea that the victim is not entirely passive is sometimes explored, noting cases where women leave their husbands only to return to the abuse. Some psychological models suggest that the victim and aggressor may exhibit interchangeable patterns, having suffered similar experiences in the past.

The Cycle of Violence (Walker, 1989)

The model proposed by Eleanor Walker in 1989 describes three distinct phases of abuse, particularly within a couple, which helps explain why victims often remain in violent relationships despite repeated assaults. The phases are:

1. Tension Building Phase: Tension begins to build between the partners. The victim often tries to placate the aggressor.
2. Acute Battering Incident: The tension explodes, resulting in a violent incident (physical or psychological).
3. Honeymoon Phase (Calm/Contrition): Following the incident, the man feels guilty and offers apologies, gifts, and pledges of change. The woman accepts this reconciliation, hoping the abuse will stop.

The cycle repeats. Initially, the violence may be minimal, but as the cycle repeats more often, the violence becomes augmenting (increasing). However, the victim often becomes more prepared to endure the abuse, holding onto the relationship rather than seeking separation or divorce.

Social Learning Theory

Unlike biological explanations, this theory posits that violence is a learned behavior acquired through social observation and reinforcement. It explains why children who witness or experience abuse are more likely to become abusers (perpetrators) themselves later in life.

Sociological and Feminist Theories

Sociological Theories

Sociological explanations often focus on societal structures and relationship dynamics. They suggest that a commitment exists between the couple, but when conflict escalates, the man, typically being physically stronger, dominates, causing the woman to convert into the victim.

Proponents of some sociological models acknowledge that women also perpetrate abuse, but suggest that male victims often do not report it due to shame or societal expectations.

Feminist Explanations

Feminist theories often reject purely sociological or psychological explanations that fail to account for gender inequality. They relate the mistreatment of women to cultural ideologies, societal structures, and the power dynamics inherent in patriarchy. Under this view, violence against women is seen as a result of men fearing the loss of their traditional power and control.