Has COVID-19 Increased the Rate of Domestic Violence?
Posted on Mar 10, 2021 11:40am PST
COVID-19 has impacted the U.S. and the world at large in a multitude of
ways over the last year. Unfortunately, it appears that the pandemic may
also be inciting a rise in domestic violence. Today, we're exploring
how and why.
To schedule a consultation with our team, contact us online
or via phone at {F:P:Sub:Phone}.
Domestic Violence in the U.S. During COVID-19
So far, the evidence does point toward an increase in domestic violence
under COVID-19. A study by the University of Texas at Dallas found that,
when the state declared a COVID-related stay-at-home order for residents,
the rate of intimate partner violence within the city
increased by roughly 12.5%.
That figure mirrors a roughly
12% increase in domestic violence reports that Chicago domestic violence hotlines received
at the beginning of April, when that city declared a stay-at-home order.
There are two key reasons COVID-19 could increase domestic violence rates
across the U.S.:
-
It's harder for survivors/victims to seek help. COVID-related job losses could make it difficult for survivors/victims
to find the finances necessary to escape an abusive relationship.
-
Abusers are at home more. This not only increases the speed at which abusers may escalate the cycle
of violence but also makes it harder for survivors/victims to find the
safety to report domestic violence to the authorities.
Domestic Violence Across the World
Domestic violence isn't just spiking in the U.S. In some parts of China,
reports of domestic violence increased significantly when cities went
into lockdown there for COVID-19.
COVID-19 has spiked domestic violence rates worldwide by such a significant
margin that UN Women actually
released a statement warning women to be careful and encouraging individuals to look out for
instances of domestic violence.
At Arnold Law Group, APC, we can help you obtain safety during a domestic
violence dispute through means such as a restraining or protective order.
To schedule a consultation with our team, contact us online
or via phone at {F:P:Sub:Phone}.