A curious ingredient is that much of the debate over domestic violence has been driven by a strand of feminist activism that traces its roots back to the 'all men are rapists' dictum. While the arguments have got more sophisticated, that remains the underlying core and the tone remains inflexible. The alliance of these two apparently unlikely bedfellows, that all men are bastards and that offenders must be dealt with in a tough manner, has created the Child Support Agency. But is is also this alliance of views that in the case of male violence prevents a proper framework for providing help. Suggesting that violent men may need help seems as popular as advocating eugenics.
Feminists understandably take a very hard line on men who do commit domestic violence.
However the hard line in itself has not brought about change in male behaviour. Perhaps now is the time to review our stance and the provision of counselling to violent men. Prosecution may express society's abhorrence of such behaviour but it does no more to stop the tide of domestic violence than it does to stop burglary or other crimes. Much of male violence is spontaneous, and most authorities agree that deep-seated anger is at the heart of it. Violence may be frightening and used to control but often it is form of emotional illiteracy.