Wang Shiyue Domestic violence is a serious and widespread issue that affects individuals across all demographic groups. It manifests as various forms of abuses, including physical, emotional, psychological, and economic harm inflicted by one family member on another. Domestic violence is not limited to personal attacks; it usually involves emotional and psychological manipulation. Victims may experience isolation, intimidation and financial control, which may make escape seem impossible. This summer vacation, I participated in an anti-domestic violence campaign, an experience that opened my eyes to many forms of abuse. The campaign’s primary goal was to show us what behaviors constitute domestic violence, revealing that many actions I hadn’t previously considered as such were indeed forms of less obvious domestic violence. In many intimate relationships, these subtle factors can trap victims in a cycle of abuse, making it extremely difficult to break free from the perpetrator. Domestic violence is a pervasive issue with alarming statistics. According to the World Health Organization, about one in three women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. In the United States, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that an average of nearly 20 individuals per minute are subjected to physical abuse by an intimate partner. This equates to more than 10 million women and men affected annually. The root causes of domestic violence often stem from persistent social norms of gender inequality, power imbalances, and cultural attitudes that condone violence. The consequences of domestic violence are far-reaching. Victims may suffer from long-term mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Children who witness the violence are also at risk of emotional and behavioral problems, perpetuating the cycle of abuse. Combating domestic violence requires multifaceted strategy involving education, legal reforms, and community support. Public awareness campaigns can help eliminate the stigma faced by victims, while robust legislation can hold abusers accountable. Fostering a culture of respect and equality is key to society’s efforts in eliminating domestic violence. It is through collective effort that we can aspire to create a safe haven for all and guard against the peril of abuse. (The author is a student from dreamers Education.) | 