behavior
April 27, 2024
Minutes To Read: 3

Violence against women

Recently, the DataSenado government service conducted a survey of women in 119 Brazilian cities to find out information about domestic violence. Of the more than 1,000 respondents, 66% believe that violence against women has increased and 60% say that women's protection against domestic violence has improved, by contrast.

Of the total of women, at least half have known a woman who has suffered domestic violence and among them, physical violence was the most cited among the women heard. But why is it that even with so many resources available to enforce the Maria da Penha Law, many women still suffer in silence?

The main reason, according to research, is the fear of revenge of the aggressor. Among other reasons why women do not report and carry on the process are concern for their children, financial dependence on the aggressor, shame of aggression and lack of knowledge of her rights.

Surprisingly, some of these battered women also fail to report the perpetrators because they believe they will stop being violent and that was the last time. Other women still fail to report the perpetrator because the Maria da Penha Law prevents them from withdrawing the complaint at the police station in certain cases.

Why do these men assault their mates?

In general, the main reasons why men commit violence against women are jealousy and the use of alcohol. Other reasons such as betrayal, separation and lack of money also appear in the survey, but are less expressive.

Among the perpetrators are usually the current husband or partner and surprisingly ex-husbands, ex-boyfriends and ex-partners.

Maria da Penha Law

Law No. 11,340 was created to curb domestic and family violence against women in a variety of ways. The law was named after the drugmaker Maria da Penha, a woman who suffered two attempts at murder by her husband, survived and found the courage to report him after the second.

According to the Maria da Penha Law, there are five types of domestic violence:

Physical violence: refers to conduct that offends the integrity and bodily health of women;
Psychological violence: refers to actions that cause psychological and emotional damage to women, such as humiliation, threats and embarrassment;
Sexual violence: is related to sexual practices such as witnessing or engaging in sexual intercourse without women's consent, as well as forcing abortion, pregnancy, prostitution or preventing the use of contraceptives;
Asset Violence: refers to situations where the perpetrator destroys or retains personal effects, documents and even financial resources intended for the woman's work or other needs;
Moral violence: refers to slander, defamation and injury against the battered woman.

According to the DataSenado survey, unfortunately only 28% of women who suffer aggression report their partners, while 23% do nothing about it. However, the only way to curb this violent action and enforce the law and our rights is to denounce the perpetrator and bring it to an end.

The law may lead to the perpetrator being arrested, or at the very least, paying a child alimony, staying away from the victim or moving from the house where they live. Can the abuser also be forced to go through a re-education process to relearn the harmonious and healthy relationship with women? no violence.

How to help a woman who suffers domestic violence

These tips will help you know what to do when you meet someone who is experiencing domestic violence. Learn to do your best in these cases and try to prevent further damage to this woman.

Keep in mind that the offender is not a victim and should be punished according to the law;
Avoid mocking the situation, as this can further worsen the victim's self-esteem and make the situation seem less serious than it really is;
Give no reason to the offender regardless of his motives for committing this crime;
Do not judge the victim if she decides to give the abuser one more chance. Instead, try to advise this woman without saying that she is wrong to continue with him, as it is difficult to have any idea of the connection between victim and perpetrator;
Support the victim as needed: make the complaint, find a safe place to stay, help seek psychological counseling, and get a lawyer to handle the case;
Accompany the victim to the police station or hospital if necessary, collect information and evidence that you consider important, and if you have any questions contact number 180.

If you suffer or know someone who suffers domestic violence, be sure to do your part. Complaints may be made at the Women's Police Station or at ordinary police stations.

The victim herself or the victim's acquaintances may also call 180 (Women's Call Center) for further guidance regarding domestic violence and how to proceed in case of aggression.