Domestic violence, a major cause of suicide

City ranks second in domestic violence, dowry deaths

Domestic disputes among couples are the common reason for suicide in the city. The city ranks second in the country with regard to domestic violence and third on dowry deaths.

Suicidal tendencies are either impulsive or thought over for a long time. According to a consulting psychiatrist, the root cause is the family. “A boy growing up watching his father harassing his mother would probably do the same to his wife because the mother behaves normally the next day for the sake of her children. This leaves an impression on the child’s mind that it is okay to do so. This passes on for generations,” said Dr Purnima Nagaraja, a mental health professional, adding that domestic violence is accepted as a norm in our country. According to a survey, 84 per cent of women said that it was okay for the husband to beat them.

Apart from physical assault, verbal abuse, threats and breaking objects can also be counted as domestic violence. “Even if a husband is at fault and leaves the family, the society blames the wife for it and it scars the psyche of the woman,” said the doctor.

The city police said that since the proactive policing, more cases are coming to the light.

A boy growing up watching his father harassing his mother would probably do the same to his wife because the mother becomes normal the next day for the sake of her children. This leaves an impression on the child’s mind that it is okay to do so. This passes on for generations, says Dr Purnima Nagaraja, a mental health professional