Channels of Communication in Managing Domestic Violence

Domestic violence reporting channels can be considered effective only when the victims get the care and resources they need. Regardless of a very high level of awareness among people regarding reporting channels, utilization remains alarmingly low. This underutilization is due, in part, to various factors such as fear of stigma associated with disclosure of abuse, a general distrust of formal institutions intended to help them, and a general lack of outreach to understand and involve potential victims. Again, most victims still would turn to informal networks for support, a fact that reflects the powerful position of cultural contexts in their decision-making processes. This book is for the purpose of analyzing the dynamics of these channels of communication and the barriers to reporting, and as such, the strategies that can be used to inspire confidence and encourage victims to seek help through both formal and informal channels.