The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact across the globe, leading most countries, including the United States, to use stay-at-home orders to help slow the spread. However, research shows that this initiative has had a negative impact in other ways. Although it may help prevent the spread of disease, it has also led to an increase in domestic violence.
The Facts About COVID & Domestic Violence
According to an article published in Psychology Today, since the spread of COVID, there has been a significant increase in domestic violence on a global scale. In fact, the United Nations Population Fund estimated a 20% increase in domestic violence, or “intimate partner violence,” globally during the 3 months of quarantine.
This increase is marked by by an increase in reported incidents in some countries, while in other countries, the reports have significantly dropped. Now, that isn’t to say that domestic violence has decreased in those countries, more likely, the issue is that fewer people are able to access phones or computers to safely report any at-home abuse.
Why is Domestic Abuse Increasing?
People are Worried
Violence in the home may be increasing because family members are cooped up together during an extremely stressful, frightening time. A global pandemic is a serious, and rare issue, one that only the elderly among us have faced. Not only that, but the numbers can be daunting. Many people are worried they’d become sick, or someone close to them will be negatively affected.
Unemployment & Financial Concerns
On top of health concerns, an ever-increasing number of Americans are losing their jobs as businesses close, either temporarily or permanently, to follow the stay-at-home orders.
Lack of Resources
Paper goods have also been difficult to get ahold of, and many Americans have having trouble getting basic necessities, like toilet paper, paper towels, diapers, and so on. Not to mention, getting to the store can be quite a chore in some areas. Most grocery stores are limiting their hours, requiring visitors to wear masks, limiting occupancy, and so on. Because of these issues, it has been very challenging for many Americans to find the food, necessities, and other resources they need to stay at home comfortably.
Homeschooling
Families across the country, and the globe, have also had to make the switch to homeschooling virtually overnight as schools closed to protect children from COVID. Spending extra time as a family is, of course, a very welcome gift. However, under these stressful circumstances, most parents have found the task of homeschooling their children very challenging. Some parents might still need to work from home, which can be next-to impossible with a child running around the house. Still more challenging, parents who are also essential workers might be left without childcare options for their children, which might ultimately cost them their jobs.
The Perfect Storm
When you put it all together, many people are dealing with financial concerns, loss of employment, frustration over current social and political issues, lack of social contact with friends and family, and are living in a confined space with limited outside contact. In short, most people are cooped up at home, and they’re stressed. These types of stressors can lead to an increase in domestic disputes, which can get out of hand and may lead to verbal or physical altercations.
What To Do If You’re Accused of Domestic Violence
We understand that we’re all under immense pressure during these difficult times, and that can lead to heated arguments, disagreements, and misunderstandings. If your spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, partner, or another relation falsely accused you of domestic violence in any form, our firm wants to hear from you. We can assess the details of your case, conduct an investigation, and create a legal strategy to help clear your name. A domestic violence conviction could have a serious impact on your career, personal relationships, and any custody arrangements you’re involved in. We believe everyone deserves a voice, and we have the experience and drive necessary to speak up on your behalf.
Contact Law Offices of William D. Thompson today to discuss your case with our firm.