Cycle of abuse is focus of welfare training
Participants learnt more about gender sensitivity and domestic violence.
WITH August being Women’s Month, Kingsburgh Child and Family Welfare Society conducted a training programme on gender sensitivity and domestic violence at its offices in Warner Beach on Tuesday, 11 August.
The programme was attended by student social workers, Amanzimtoti Trauma Unit and Higher Life Church. It focused on sensitising service providers and communities to gender issues, as well as problems and difficulties experienced by women who have been abused.
Senior social worker, Sandra Govender facilitated the training. Participants learnt about the various types of abuses: physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and psychological, economic, intimidation, harassment and stalking.
The cycle of abuse and violence has three stages:
* The tension stage: The relationship between the woman and her partner slowly becomes more difficult and strained. Tension builds up. Often the woman knows that the man will eventually abuse her, though she cannot say when it will happen.
* The abusing stage: The man abuses or beats his partner. The reason for the abuse can either be something important or unimportant. The abuse may last for a few minutes or a few days. The abuse may either be emotional or physical.
* The honeymoon stage: After a beating or other abuse, the abuser is often sorry. He promises never to abuse or beat his partner again. He may be loving and kind towards her. If the woman accepts his apologies and goes back to him, the man learns his promises can be used to make his partner feel good about him and their relationship. After a while the honeymoon stage ends and the relationship becomes difficult and strained again.
Men who abuse their partners come from all races, religions and cultures. They may be rich or poor, have good jobs or no jobs at all. However, they have one thing in common, they want to control the women who are their partners. They believe they have the right to power and control over women.
If you are in an abusive relationship or know of someone who is in one, there is help available. Contact Kingsburgh Welfare on 031-916-2274 or Amanzimtoti Trauma Unit on 031-903-7777.
