Under the title "What are the Reasons for the Increase of Domestic Crimes in Egypt?", the Al Arabiya website reported that Egypt has seen a significant increase in domestic crimes among couples recently, occurring in various and horrific ways. What are the reasons behind the rise in murder and violence among spouses? Dr. Asmaa Murad, a women's sociology specialist, spoke to Al Arabiya about the reasons for the increase in domestic violence. She explained that the lifestyle today is different, where the extended family was once seen as the ideal image of a successful family, with the grandfather or father playing a controlling role as the provider. Now, it may be the wife who controls the family's finances, thus diminishing the husband's authority.
#### Social Reasons
Social factors contributing to domestic violence include separation between spouses or the threat of it, and a lack of family cohesion and stability felt by children. Other reasons include failure to educate children on good behaviors and morals, and a lack of love and understanding, replaced by anger, shouting, and violence. Murad added that there are also economic reasons, such as family poverty and the lack of basic needs. "We find survival of the fittest in the violence over earning a living among some, as well as poor choices in partners and weak religious motivation being contributing factors." Cultural legacies, such as the discrimination between males and females in treatment, and the absence of a culture of polite dialogue among family members, are also mentioned.
She also pointed out psychological reasons, which include severe psychological disorders in violent individuals that lead to harming others.
#### Increasing Domestic Violence
Murad noted that domestic violence is widespread and is currently increasing, emphasizing the need to focus on finding solutions rather than letting the mentality of violence spread without fundamental remedies. The reasons for spousal violence are varied, including the inability to separate from a marriage for financial reasons, particularly the wife’s need for money and lack of an independent financial resource, as well as psychological issues like extreme jealousy, possessiveness, or aggressive mental disorders.
Moreover, upbringing plays a significant role, as it contributes to shaping a child's personality, resulting in either negative or positive behaviors as they grow up, with the necessity of providing lessons, workshops, and conferences to emphasize good treatment methods.
She concluded by stating, "We must also not overlook the role of media in instilling human values through programs and dramatic works, and establishing care facilities and rehabilitation centers for those about to marry to guide them on the best approach to family life."
