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By: Naheemat Oyekanmi
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has taken a progressive step in addressing the issue of domestic violence. Through support and healing group therapy sessions, the agency aims to guide and reform over 50 male perpetrators of domestic violence. This proactive initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to promoting psychosocial wellness and curbing the concerning rise of sexual and gender-based violence cases in Lagos State.
The Purpose
Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State DSVA, expressed the primary objective of the intervention program. Held at the Novel House Office in Alausa Ikeja, these group therapy sessions are designed to equip perpetrators with the tools they need to manage their emotions more effectively. This, in turn, contributes to reducing instances of domestic violence and fostering a safer environment for all citizens.
Addressing Childhood Trauma
Vivour-Adeniyi highlighted a crucial insight that shapes the approach of these healing group sessions. Research has shown that many perpetrators of domestic violence have themselves been victims of traumatic experiences during childhood. The sessions aim to facilitate the healing process by addressing these deep-seated traumas, which may have contributed to their abusive behavior in adulthood.
Promoting Accountability
One of the core goals of the group therapy sessions is to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. Instead of shifting blame onto their victims, these sessions encourage participants to take responsibility for their behavior. This shift from blame to accountability is essential in breaking the cycle of violence and creating a society where personal actions are acknowledged and owned.
Unlearning Negative Coping Skills
The healing journey involves helping perpetrators unlearn unhealthy coping mechanisms that have perpetuated violence in their lives. By replacing negative coping skills with healthy alternatives, participants gain valuable tools to manage their anger, communicate effectively, and cultivate peaceful relationships. This holistic approach seeks to transform not only individual behavior but also the dynamics within households and communities.
Towards Peaceful and Harmonious Relationships
Vivour-Adeniyi emphasized the wider implications of these support and healing sessions. By enabling perpetrators to develop healthier coping strategies, the agency envisions a positive ripple effect in their personal lives and relationships. The ultimate aim is to create a society where peaceful and harmonious interactions prevail, significantly reducing the prevalence of domestic violence cases.
Conclusion
The Lagos State DSVA’s support and healing group therapy sessions mark a pivotal step toward eradicating domestic violence. By addressing the root causes of abusive behavior and equipping perpetrators with essential tools for emotional management, the agency is sowing the seeds of transformation. These initiatives emphasize that healing, accountability, and positive change are achievable, not only for the participants but for the society at large. As these sessions continue to make an impact, there is hope for a safer, more empathetic, and violence-free Lagos State.
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