Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1542275
6 COMMERCIAL maltatoday | SUNDAY • 28 DECEMBER 2025 Beyond the victim–perpetrator lens: A whole-family approach framework for ending domestic violence DOMESTIC violence is of- ten misunderstood as a pri- vate matter affecting only the person directly harmed and as something that needs to stay behind closed doors, yet the reality is far more com- plex. Domestic violence affects everyone in connection to the victim including the children, extended family members, and even the broader community. Because of this interconnected impact, practitioners and ad- vocates increasingly emphasise the importance of a whole-fam- ily approach in preventing and responding to domestic vio- lence. As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, this approach becomes especially relevant, offering a framework for sustained change, healing, and prevention. A whole-family approach recognises that abuse does not occur in isolation. Even if one family member is the primary target, the ripple effects spread widely since children may witness violence, hear argu- ments or experience the emo- tional tension that permeates throughout the household. Re- search consistently shows that children exposed to domestic violence face increased risks of anxiety, depression, behav- ioural issues, and difficulties in school. They may also in- ternalise harmful norms about relationships and gender roles. Partners, siblings, and rela- tives may also develop trauma responses, such as hypervigi- lance, withdrawal, or a sense of helplessness. By acknowledging the broader impact on all fam- ily members, a whole-family approach ensures that services and interventions address the full picture rather than only the most visible aspect. Safety planning is one area where this approach proves to be important where effec- tive safety measures require a nuanced understanding of the family's dynamics, communi- cation patterns, and support systems. A narrowly focused intervention might protect the survivor temporarily, but it may overlook risks faced by children or other dependents. In con- trast, a whole-family approach helps practitioners identify who is at risk, what resources are available, and what strate- gies are most likely to succeed in the long term. Moreover, awareness raising in schools on the topic of domestic violence, healthy relationships and con- sent would educate boys and girls about gender equality and the development of non-violent relationships as can be found in the UNITE. ENGAGE. EL- EVATE. National Strategy on Gender Based Violence and Do- mestic Violence (2023–2028). Another critical strength of the whole-family approach lies in its potential to break cycles of violence. When only the survivor receives support, the broader environment often remains unchanged. Children may continue to struggle si- lently with trauma, and per- petrators may never receive intervention which leaves pat- terns of harm unaddressed. A whole-family approach provides support for chil- dren, offers trauma-informed counselling for survivors, and where safe and appropriate, includes rehabilitation or be- haviour-change programmes for those who use violence. Addressing every part of the family system reduces the risk of re-victimisation and creates better conditions for long-term healing and rebuilding. In this context, encouraging those committing violence to attend to perpetrator treatment programmes leads to effective interventions which can reduce further incidents of abuse, and helps to prevent the risk of con- tinued abusive behaviour. Importantly, this approach remains grounded in survivor agency. A whole-family strate- gy does not mean forcing rec- onciliation or keeping families together at all costs. Instead, it acknowledges the survivor's right to define their family, make informed decisions, and choose the types of support they feel are appropriate. It re- spects cultural and relational nuances and avoids one-size- fits-all solutions. In the context of the 'We Have a Dream: A Future Without Violence' national campaign for the 16 Days of Activism, organised by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence & Domestic Violence and the Parliamentary Secretariat for Equality & Reforms, adopting a whole-family approach sends a powerful message that in order to end domestic violence it re- quires understanding, support- ing, and transformation on the environments where violence occurs. By addressing the needs of each family member, we move beyond crisis response toward long-term prevention, resil- ience, and healing. This holis- tic, compassionate perspective embodies the spirit of the cam- paign and strengthens our col- lective commitment to ending gender-based violence in all its forms.