[psych-hr] Re: Eradicating the Root Causes of Domestic Violence: A Call for Input

Dear Ms's Houghton & O'Connor

First of all, I would like to recommend that as representatives of a center
supported by the alcohol industry, you work to be extremely grounded in the
scientific literature.  I was somewhat taken aback by your request to find
ways to get the public to stop seeing alcohol as part of the problem with
violence in the family.  There is no question that alcohol abuse is a major
part of the problem of domestic violence and for you to make efforts to
prove otherwise could be considered unethical practice.

Most studies indicate that between 60-80% of domestic violence and many
other forms of violence are committed under the influence of alcohol.  While
alcohol may not be the "root" of the problem, it is inextricably linked to
both violent acts, through is disinhibatory effects, and to masculine
psychology, through its ritual use by men to avoid feelings other than
anger.

That said, I would recommend you look into the literature on the psychology
of men for more information on the links between the violent socialization
of male children and the propensity to be violent both in and out of the
home.  A good resource is the journal "Psychology of Men & Masculinity"
published by Division 51 of the American Psychological Association.  The
journal is only 2 years old, but has contributed a great deal to the
understanding of male psychology.

Lastly, I would also recommend that you look more broadly than focusing on
"the patriarchy" which is a polarizing term.  While world patterns of
masculine socialization are indeed atrocious and must be changed if we are
to have a peaceful world, blaming men is not likely to promote understanding
and incite widespread change in the way we treat our male children.  The
answer is to look at society's acceptance of abuse and violence towards
ANYONE, be they woman, child, or man.

We are a violent world full of violent societies that glorify violence.  Our
media reflect that at every level.  Until we take a hard look at that and
see how deeply rooted our world consciousness is in accepting violence, we
have no chance to change what happens in the home.

Good luck in your project,

Joanie V. Connors, Ph.D.
International Peace Practitioners' Network
ELCF-GRAD 237
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
(501) 575-3582, 582-0078
FAX 501.575.2492