Yes, domestic violence calls are increasing and the coronavirus is likely to blame. Experts worry that social distancing and stay-at-home-orders are making domestic violence worse. COVID-19 and social distancing have changed the playing field. People are staying at home and boredom, stress and alcohol are playing huge factors in the increase of domestic violence during the lockdown.
The coronavirus outbreak could be disastrous for people in abusive relationships. Nearly three in four Americans are being asked not to go out of their homes, and the situation may be aggravated by mounting financial pressure and stress. Data from police departments and local news coverage from around the country suggests that these concerns are justified. It is still early in the coronavirus crisis, and domestic violence tends to escalate as people spend more time in close quarters.
On top of all of this, financial insecurity can increase aggression in relationships. Uncertainty about money, or job security, or the ability to make the next rent payment, or put food on the table, adds fuel to the fire. Yes, the coronavirus pandemic and the stay-at-home-orders have changed the playing field.
