Survey shows rise in domestic violence during economic downturn

It takes work to create and foster a healthy and loving relationship or marriage. Many New Jersey couples would probably admit that at one time or another, their marriage hit a rocky path or they were on the verge of calling it quits with their partner. However, many couples are able to work through their disagreements and they may find that their relationship is even stronger after overcoming their challenges.

Unfortunately, some arguments or disagreements between couples involve more than just an exchange of words. A spouse might get physically violent with a partner during an argument and hit the other spouse or throw objects at his or her partner. In other situations, a spouse might become jealous or controlling and attempt to prevent his or her partner from participating in activities outside of the home. These types of behaviors and actions are considered domestic violence, and this type of violence in the home can be devastating and dangerous.

According to the results of a national survey that was conducted by several law enforcement agencies, domestic violence continues to exist in many homes, and domestic violence rates appear to be increasing as the sluggish economy continues to have an effect on our nation's households.

Researchers analyzed data that had been provided by about 700 law enforcement agencies throughout the U.S. According to the survey, more than half of these agencies reported that there had been an increase in domestic violence incidents during 2011 compared to the previous year. Police in Camden, New Jersey, reported that domestic violence incidents in the area increased from 7,500 during 2010 to 9,100 during 2011. During this period, unemployment rates also remained at nearly 20 percent in the city.

Why would the economy have an effect on the occurrence of domestic violence in our New Jersey homes?

One police chief in New Jersey commented that economic hardships tend create more stress in the home. When individuals are stressed, worried about finances or fear that they will lose their jobs, an argument with a spouse or partner could send them over the edge and lead to domestic violence. Although some individuals might already have violent tendencies, stress and confrontation could cause others to do or say things they might later regret.

Source: USA Today, "Domestic violence rises in sluggish economy, police report," Kevin Johnson, April 30, 2012