Masculinity

Does perceived power play a role in domestic violence?

According to the research, men constructed the violence as a rational response to various factors including loss of control, extreme provocation and minor incidents blown out of proportion.  According to the author, respondents present themselves as competent and rational masculine actors. This brings out the question whether perceived power by men play a role in domestic violence.  Generally, men are observed to exercise more power than women within the marriage arrangement. One way of expressing such power may be viewed as through violent behavior. Therefore, power has a role in violent marriages where the perpetrator is powerful, and the victim is the less powerful. The pattern of behavior is used to establish power and control over the other person. Violence can be done through intimidation and fear often including the threat and use of violence. The control motives of the violent member can be identified operationally by patterns of violence that indicate an attempt to exercise general control over the victim. Men perpetrate more frequent and severe violent acts compared to women (p. 496). The higher levels of perceived power by men are therefore associated with the use of aggression.

The takeaway message is that domestic violence can be viewed as a consequence of a patriarchal culture that views men as powerful and rational. The dominating approach makes it seem justifiable to prevent perpetrate domestic violence. On the other hand, violence can also be viewed as expression of male vulnerability or powerlessness rather than powerfulness and dominance. Additionally, domestic violence can be related to women’s status and power attained from sources such as income and education.  The power may be perceived negatively. In general, violence within relationships may be a result of power imbalances between the perpetrator and the victim.

Sherry Roberts is the author of this paper. A senior editor at MeldaResearch.Com in custom nursing papers if you need a similar paper you can place your order from custom nursing essay.