Question

How family and social disruption became a consequence of violence?

Answer 1

“The intentional use of physical force or power,
threatened or actual, against oneself, another
person, or a group or community, that either
results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in
injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment
or deprivation.”
– World Health Organization, 1996

From the 1999 WHO Consultation on Child Abuse
Prevention:
“Child abuse or maltreatment constitutes all forms of
physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse,
neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other
exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the
child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the
context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or
power.”

• A report on public health research on violence by
WorldSAFE, a part of the International Clinical Epidemiology
Network (INCLEN)
• A protocol-driven surveillance and research network to
“survey population-based samples of mothers, aged 15-49,
about their experiences with domestic violence…and
discipline practices (of their children).”
• Documents extensive global use of harsh corporal
punishment.

• Of mothers responding to international WorldSAFE inquiry
about discipline of their child in the previous 6 months:
– 36% reported severe physical punishment (hitting with
object, beating etc.)
– 60% reported moderate physical punishment (spanking,
pinching etc.)
• Physical abuse is not limited to the home and may take place in
public space, work areas, or institutions like schools.
• While moderate physical abuse (corporal punishment) maybe
culturally and legally acceptable it is condemned by the UN
Convention on Rights of the Child.