THE DYNAMICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: A MULTI-FACTORIAL ANALYSIS OF THEORETICAL MODELS AND THE SOCIOCULTURAL CONTEXT OF NORTH MACEDONIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46763/Keywords:
Domestic Violence, Socio-Ecological Model, Power and Control, Patriarchal Traditions, Gender InequalityAbstract
This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the causes and
theoretical frameworks surrounding domestic violence, with a specific
focus on the socio-cultural context of North Macedonia. By moving
beyond outdated one-dimensional models that attribute violence solely
to social class or individual pathology, this study utilizes the multifactorial socio-ecological model to explore how individual, relational,
community, and societal factors intersect to perpetuate abuse. The
research evaluates several scientific theories - including social learning,
learned helplessness, and the psychopathological approach - while
critiquing the myths of "loss of control" and "reciprocal violence."
Central to this analysis is the Duluth "Power and Control Wheel," which
identifies violence as a deliberate pattern of behavior intended to
maintain dominance rather than an isolated outburst of anger. In the
context of North Macedonia, the paper examines how a prolonged
period of societal transition, economic fragility, and deeply rooted
patriarchal traditions contribute to the subordinate position of women.
The study concludes that domestic violence is an expression of
historically unequal power relations and argues that effective prevention
requires simultaneous intervention across all levels of the socialecological framework. By shifting the focus from victim behavior to the
perpetrator’s intent and the broader social climate, this paper advocates
for a systemic approach to fostering a culture of non-violence and
gender equality.
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