Domestic Violence: A Sociological Perspective

Abstract: Sociology and sociological theory have been good at studying conflicts and violence in society and institutions, but not as much when it comes to looking at individual violence. This article explores the importance of sociology in understanding domestic violence. The connection between sociology and domestic violence is influenced by various tensions and contradictions, which also have larger implications for sociology and sociological theory. We look at these issues by considering the conflicting ideas of violence and closeness in domestic violence, the significance of how we talk about and understand this violence, the reasons behind it, and who is responsible. We also explore how gender norms, power dynamics, and the way we talk about things all play a role in men hurting women they know.