Human violence: A treatable epidemic∗

Based on a presentation to MEDACT's Conference ‘Preventing Violence’, London, 12 April 1997.

Abstract

Domestic violence is common, afflicting at least one in 15 of the population. The victims are usually women and children and the perpetrators often the traditional male head of the family. It commonly leads to a form of post‐traumatic stress disorder manifested as psychiatric illness in women and violent crime in men. It is proposed that a major underlying factor is a failure of attachment in infancy. This form of violence can be prevented by better health care before and after birth, particularly in the inner cities and with reduction of inequality; education for parenting; free nursery education; and diminishing ‘legitimate’ violence, in the media, by government (capital or corporal punishment) and as violent sporting activities.

Key Words:

• Attachment theory
• Domestic violence
• Education
• Health care
• Poverty

Notes

Based on a presentation to MEDACT's Conference ‘Preventing Violence’, London, 12 April 1997.