Você está na página 1de 12

BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS

Battered People and Battered Animals

Morgan R. Quinn

The University of Texas at El Paso


BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
2

Abstract

Since the 1960s connections have been made between cases of domestic violence and cases of

animal abuse. The aim of this paper is to examine the connection between the two based off of

many research studies completed. Research also includes a personal survey and interview.

Evidence within graphs will also allow research to be better examined. Background information

and legal action taken will also be taken into consideration within the paper. Results of studies

conducted show there is a strong connection between the two factors and examples to prove its

findings.
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
3

Battered People and Battered Animals

Domestic violence is a known issue all around the world, but can animals somehow be in

connection with this issue? Domestic violence seems to be sometimes brushed under the rug as a

discussion that is not openly talked about due to the content which will arise. Although animals,

something that most people have an experience or connection with, can be included in the topic.

This may make the discussion a bit more personal, relatable, and questionable. Many popular

organizations provide access to information regarding the connection between domestic violence

and animals. The Emory Law Journal published the article, The Abuse of Animals as a Method

of Domestic Violence: The Need for Criminalization (Upadhya 2014), which states research has

shown that an abusive household often contains more than one victim, and that an abuser is

likely to harm both his intimate partner and domestic animals in the home. The Journal of

Social Work Education published the article, Domestic Violence and Animal Cruelty: Untangling

the Web of Abuse (Faver & Strand 2003), which reviews research how human and animal

welfare organizations may strengthen prevention efforts and service. This paper examines

research conducted regarding the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse.

Background

In order to understand the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse, a

background of the two factors must first be established. The first factor to be examined is

domestic violence. Domestic violence can be defined as abusive behavior in any relationship

which creates a pattern in order to gain or maintain control over another person. The abuse can

range from physical, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats against another

person. The abuser, the person committing the act of domestic violence, can intimidate,

manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
4

another individual. Domestic violence can occur despite different factors of race, age, sexual

orientation, religion, gender, socioeconomic backgrounds, and education levels. It does not

matter whether those partners involved are same-sex or opposite-sex, married, living together, or

just dating. Domestic violence can also produce a dramatic effect on others besides those directly

involved. Examples of others affected include family members, friends, co-workers, witnesses,

and the community. According to The United States Department of Justice, Children who grow

up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent

exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical

problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore increasing their

risk of becoming societys next generation of victims and abusers.

The second factor to be examined is animal abuse. Animal abuse, also known as animal

cruelty or animal neglect, can be defined as a person committing an act of violence towards an

animal or not caring for an animal responsibly. Animal abuse can be broken up into two separate

categories, intentional cruelty and neglect. Intentional cruelty occurs when an individual will

inflict physical harm or injury on an animal purposely. Individuals who are caught committing

intentional cruelty will be arrested but are usually not prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Neglect occurs when an individual denies an animal of the basic necessities of life such as fresh

water and food, shelter, or veterinary care. Neglect is usually a result of ignorance on the

individuals part and is handled by the requirement of the owner to correct the situation. In both

cases, animals are mostly considered an object or property to control instead of an actual life.

Intentional cruelty is usually far more dramatic and shocking compared to neglect. Intentional

cruelty can also be a red flag to an underlying human behavior problem. For purposes of

research, this paper will focus on intentional cruelty rather than neglect.
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
5

Studies Conducted

Over the last few decades, there have been multiple studies regarding the connection

between domestic violence and animal abuse. Margaret Mead, an anthropologist, was one of the

first to produce the idea that childhood animal cruelty might be an indicator of antisocial

violence in adulthood in the early 1960s. Child protection organizations also stemmed from

organizations dedicated the protection of animals. A study produced by Ascione (2000) discussed

the presence of animal cruelty in a sample of battered and non-battered women. The sample

consisted of 100 women and all owned pets. According to the data, 54% percent of the battered

women and 5% of the non-battered women reported that their partner had injured or killed their

pets. Also, 62% of the women reported that children were exposed to the abuse of the animals.

Another large study conducted in Canada showed similar findings. The Ontario Society for the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Canada, studied 21 women seeking assistance from abusive

relationships. Data revealed that 44% of these women had already witnessed the abuse or killing

of their pets by the abuser and 43% reported concern for the safety of their pets prevented them

from seeking help or leaving the abusive situation earlier. Other studies include, but are not

limited to, Arkow (1995) which revealed women seeking refuge, restraining orders, or

counseling due to domestic violence, had observed animal cruelty in their home, Quinlisk (1995)

and Renzetti (1992) which both published studies regarding the connection between domestic

violence and animal abuse in the home. In 2008, The Chicago Police Department also compiled

their own statistics of offenders who committed crimes against animals along with other crimes

they had committed. Their statistics showed that over 50% of offenders who had committed

crimes against animals, had also committed battery-related violent offense charges (see
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
6

Appendix Figure 1). Other charges committed by offenders of animal abuse included firearms

charges, sex crime charges, and felony charges.

Making the Connection Survey

For the first part of my personal and primary research, I formulated and conducted a

survey, Making the Connection Survey, regarding the publics general knowledge of domestic

violence, animal abuse and if individuals were aware of the connection between the two (see

Appendix Figure 2). The survey was anonymous and distributed online via Facebook and email

with a total of 10 participants. According to research findings, over 50% of subjects believed that

they were generally knowledgeable regarding the basics of domestic violence and animal abuse.

When asked if they believed animal abuse was connected to domestic violence, 40% agreed

there was a connection, 20% believed there was somewhat of a connection, and 40% were

unsure of the connection. Another component of the survey consisted of the statement, If an

individual engages in animal abuse, they are most likely to engage in domestic violence, 60% of

participants agreed. Research findings also consisted of 20% of participants agreeing that

domestic violence victims are more likely to stay in abusive situations when the safety of their

pets is at stake. In conclusion of my findings, the sample collected shows that the public is aware

of the elements of domestic violence and animal abuse but unsure how to make the connection

between the two. Something I was also unaware of before embarking on this report.

Interview

For the second half of personal research, a face-to-face interview was conducted with an

El Paso community member who has dealt with both domestic violence and animal abuse first

hand. Victoria Aguirre, 19, has given written consent to have her name and interview findings
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
7

published for research. Miss. Aguirre was in an abusive relationship with her ex-fianc, who will

remain anonymous. Her ex-fianc apparently struggled with anger issues since he was a child

until she met him into adulthood. Miss. Aguirre stated, I remember the first time he put his

hands on me, it was about 6 months into our relationship and he just snapped. She claims to

have always noticed a hot temper with her partner but no physical abuse. Before the relationship

between Miss. Aguirre and her partner turned physically violent, she witnessed him throwing her

kitten from across the room against a wall. She stated, He just picked up my kitten and threw

her against the wall because she had urinated on the rug. I had never seen him do anything like

that. After this incident, her partner turned into her abuser and the violence continued to escalate

against her and her pet. Not only did physical violence escalate, but verbal abuse escalated as

well. She believes that if an individual shows signs of abuse or hatred towards animals, they have

a greater chance of turning into an abuser in the household. She has since sought assistance and

is no longer in danger of an abusive relationship. She also feels the need for the community to be

openly aware of dating/marriage violence as well as animal abuse.

How and Why?

Two important questions to examine are how and why abusers choose to hurt animals and

use them against domestic violence victims. Abusers choose to batter animals for many reasons.

Some reasons include, demonstrating power and control over the family, isolating the victim and

children, enforce submission, perpetuate an environment of fear, prevent the victim from leaving

or convince victim to return, or to punish for leaving or showing independence. Studies show

that one in four battered women say she stayed with the abuser because the fear of leaving their

animals behind. Now, around the world, many animal protection programs and human welfare

programs are starting to work hand in hand in order to better protect the community from
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
8

situations of abuse. For example, in Scotland, The Pet Fostering Service Scotland (PFSS) and

Scottish Womens Aid (SWA) have joined as one in order to accommodate women and families

seeking assistance and shelter. If the household has pets, these two organizations work together

to have animals fostered by PFSS. Domestic violence shelters now make sure they incorporate

pets in their safety planning and work with legislatures to include pets in Orders of Protection.

Shelters and organizations also hope to educate judges about the seriousness of this issue.

Although there are many questions which still arise with this, such as, What happens when the

abuser comes back to claim the animal? Organizations around the world continue to join forces

with more understanding of the deep connection between animal abuse and domestic violence.

Notorious Killers

Evidence of violence and animal abuse can also be validated by showing the connection

it makes with serial killers. Robert K. Ressler, develops profiles of serial killers for the Federal

Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Ressler states, Murderers very often start out by killing and

torturing animals as kids. For example, Albert DeSalvo, known as the Boston Strangler, killed

13 women. Prior to his serial killings, DeSalvo would trap dogs and cats and shoot arrows at

them through boxes in his youth. Jeffrey Dahmer, a widely known serial killer, used to impale

the heads of frogs, cats, and dogs on sticks. Dennis Radar, also known as the BTK killer, hanged

a dog and a cat during his early childhood. Lee Boyd Malvo, a convicted sniper who killed 10

people with a rifle, would pelt and kill numerous cats with marbles when he was around the age

of 14. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, were the Columbine High School students who shot and

killed 12 students before committing suicide. Fellow survivor classmates, spoke of the tales the

two men would mention of the mutilation of animals they would engage in. Other high school

students who turned killer, Kip Kinkel and Luke Woodham, had similar backgrounds. These are
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
9

just a few of the many examples of animal abusers who turned serial killer. The connection

between animal abuse and domestic violence can be greatly seen in these types of cases.

Legal Action

The first major law to help government agencies and victim advocates work together to

battle domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes committed against women, is the

Violence against Women Act. This act created many benefits for women such as violence

prevention programs in communities, protection for those evicted due to domestic violence or

stalking, funding victim assistance services centers, and also legal aid. Also, the Family Violence

Prevention and Services Act provides funding for victims and children such as providing shelter

and related help. The FVPSA has formulated grants, created the National Domestic Violence

Hotline, and created the program The Domestic Violence Prevention Enhancements and

Leadership through Alliances Program. Animals have also gained various rights and

protections. It is currently illegal to intentionally abuse or neglect an animal. Animals will be

taken from the abusive or neglectful home and the abuser will be prosecuted accordingly. Other

laws require that an individual attend a proper animal care class after an offense.

Conclusion

At the end of research through primary studies and studies previously recorded, it can be

concluded that animal abuse plays a dramatic role in the event of domestic violence. Much

research has already been conducted but more research needs to be conducted in future studies in

order to better protect the welfare of animals and the community. With better research and

findings, states and cities can work to create legislation that protects both animals and

individuals in cases such as these. The public is not as informed with this type of situation as it
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
10

should be. For example, the results from my personal survey conducted validates the community

being uninformed. Advocacy groups for the life of animals and the life of humans should

promote the connection between one another to better educate the community. If the connection

is widely known, more lives can be helped and saved. With a greater knowledge of the

connection, organizations and shelters can join together which will guarantee more domestic

violence victims seeking assistance. Since, as mentioned previously, most domestic violence

victims do not seek attention due to the safety concerns of their household pets. Also, if the

connection is greater known, the community may be able to recognize signs of childhood abuse

or intervene when a child is committing acts of violence towards animals. If the act of violence

towards animals is recognized when the child is young and is put to a stop, that child will be less

likely to commit an act of domestic violence through adulthood. This will benefit the community

as a whole in the future.


BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
11

References

Animal Abuse and Human Abuse: Partners in Crime. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.peta.org/issues/companion-animal-issues/companion-animals-factsheets/animal-

abuse-human-abuse-partners-crime/

Becker, F., & French, L. (2004). Making the links: child abuse, animal cruelty and domestic

violence. Child Abuse Review, 13(6), 399-414.

Charles, S. (2010, June). The Animal-Cruelty Syndrome. The New York Times Magazine.

Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/

Domestic Violence. (2016, October 31). Retrieved from https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-

violence

Faver, C. A., & Strand, E. L. (2003). Domestic Violence and Animal Cruelty: Untangling the

Web of Abuse. Journal of Social Work Education, 39(2), 237.

Upadhya, V. (2014). The Abuse of Animals as a Method of Domestic Violence: The Need for

Criminalization. Emory Law Journal, 63(5), 1163-1209.

What Constitutes Animal Cruelty? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.petfinder.com/helping-

pets/animal-cruelty/aspca-animal-cruelty-fact/
BATTERED PEOPLE AND BATTERED ANIMALS
12

Appendix

Figure 1.

Figure 2. Making the Connection Survey

1. Do you consider yourself knowledgeable regarding domestic violence?


2. Do you consider yourself knowledgeable regarding domestic violence?
3. Do you believe animal abuse can be connected to domestic violence?
4. If an individual engages in animal abuse, they are most likely to engage in domestic
violence.
5. Do you believe individuals stay in situations of domestic violence in fear of safety of
household pets?
ALL QUESTIONS ANSWERED WITH ONE CHOICE OF:
YES/NO/SOMEWHAT/UNSURE

Você também pode gostar