We Are What We Learn: The Effects of Race on Domestic Violence from SLT Perspective

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Domestic violence is a vicious cycle that many men and women, regardless of age and race, experience on a daily basis. However, in a 1975 study, African American women were four times more likely to be a victim of domestic abuse than White women. While this number has since lowered, there are still higher levels of violence reported among African Americans and Latinos, in comparison to non-Hispanic Whites. To understand why and how people may resort to domestic violence, Aker’s Social Learning theory is applied. The purpose is to gain clarity through providing data and information on the differences between races and communities that may lead to violence. Thus, a close examination of why African Americans and Latinos have been subject to higher domestic violence rates within their race. In addition, the effects of being perceived as a domestically violent race and policy recommendations are given.

Author

• Ariel James, St. Vincent College, Latrobe Pa