Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Why is domestic violence surging during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Position‹2 of 2

Financial and safety concerns amplify domestic violence amid COVID-19 pandemic

Social factors that put people more at risk for violence are reduced access to resources, increased stress due to job loss or strained finances, and disconnection from social support systems.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. Surge in firearms amid COVID-19 pandemic
    Fears about COVID-19 and its broader societal and economic impacts have fueled a rush on gun stores. The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.
  2. Strained finances from layoffs
    Unemployment, health concerns and the added stress of having children at home and out of school are factors that can contribute to abuse conditions.