France Aims To Ban 'Psychological Violence' In Marriages

From Redorbit.com: "France Aims To Ban 'Psychological Violence' In Marriages"

The French government proposed a new law banning ‘psychological violence’ in marriages. When it takes effect later this year, it will be the first law of its kind in the world.

The law, which will also apply to couples who are living together, is being implemented to stop people from insulting their spouses or partners during domestic arguments. Those who violate the new law could see a criminal record on their name.

While I applaud the fact that the government is taking psychological (or verbal) violence seriously, I do wonder how on earth something like that can be policed.

Resources could be better spent on educating men & boys that verbally abusing women and in effect denying them healthy equal relationships has as much of an effect on women as physical violence. Primary prevention should take precedent here.

This is echoed in a great article in the Connecticut Law Tribune by Erika Tindill of he Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV):

There must also be a focus on primary prevention. This is a public health approach to the issue that uses strategies to prevent the “disease” before it happens – much like the work done with smoking and drinking and driving. More work must be done to reach young boys and girls before they become victims and batterers. Supportive services for children whose parents are involved in domestic violence are crucial. Without support and implementation of these services and programs, we are doomed to producing generations of victims and abusers.