The Impact of War on the Syrian Family: How Has Domestic Violence Increased?

The Impact of War on the Syrian Family: How Has Domestic Violence Increased?
By Sara Al-ahmad

War has affected the Syrian family and exacerbated the aspects of domestic violence. The spread and escalation of domestic violence have occurred since the outbreak of the war, with parents suffering financial losses, leading to a decrease in attention to family upbringing due to difficult living and psychological conditions. Due to all of this, violence has become widespread, especially with the absence of knowledge about proper domestic education.

The current situation has led to a narrow living standard, contributing to an increase in exhaustion and tension experienced by parents. The widespread use of mobile phones is a major factor in the spread of violence, as children rely on social media and indirect messages they receive, leading to their non-compliance with parental orders and an increase in violence in society.

Sexual violence in the midst of war is a significantly prevalent phenomenon at present, with its causes attributed to selling the body for money and fear of the ruling authority. When weapons are used against a person, that person becomes obedient and fearful of death. This means that sexual violence may be hidden, but its impact manifests in the increase of violence within families.

Education and awareness are crucial tools in combating violence and promoting peace in society. Change can be initiated through disseminating a culture of non-violence, conducting awareness sessions and advocacy. Additionally, incorporating all forms of violence as crimes punishable by law and targeting influential individuals in society to promote safe behavior can be effective means to reduce violence in the community.

The social and economic problems leading to the spread of violence in Syrian society are a result of war, poverty, and the scarcity of basic resources for individuals. Parents undergo pressure, tension, and confusion that threaten the stability of the entire family, causing them to channel their negative energies within the family. Individuals may then experience psychological crises and transmit their negative feelings to others, leading them to commit similar violent acts.

Numerous challenges exist in spreading cultural awareness among children and youth affected by violence, rehabilitating and socially integrating them by focusing on their mental health and keeping them away from sources of harm and violence. Providing alternatives, such as positive personal development messages, can enable them to break free from pressures and burdens.

It is also important for the media to play a role in creating peace in Syrian society and empowering individuals. The media is the means to reach viewers, not politics. All media should be directed towards emphasizing the importance of the family and reducing the phenomenon of violence. This includes leveraging major media outlets such as television and widely-watched channels.

Moreover, legal texts and trial policies should be included in the treatment and confrontation plan for crimes and violence. It is necessary to include a provision in the constitution and the law governing “domestic violence” as a crime punishable by law.