Violent Men: Perpetrators and Forgotten Victims - From abused boys to Perpetrators of Male Violence – A Pastoral Theological Strategy for Prevention of Male Violence Against Women and Children in Fiji.

Abstract

Male violence against women and children - domestic violence, rape, child abuse, incest, psychological, mental and emotional abuse, interpersonal, intimate partner violence and the likes are prevalent and tearing away at the moral and social fabric of the Fijian society. Men in most cases are the perpetrators of male violence against women and children. Since majority of such abuse emanates from within the Fijian Christian communities the exploration research and its analysis will be committed to a Christian perspective. How can the Christian community and Church effectively but passionately contribute to the prevention of such violence in Fiji? What can the Church offer in terms of biblical based pastoral care to the offenders? Utilizing the parables of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15: 11 – 32) and the Good Samaritan (Luke 10: 25 – 37), a Biblical Theological response with Compassionate and Restorative Justice perspective is desirable. An in depth analysis of the existing statistical information and literature will be incorporated to highlight the incidence and prevalence of this brutal reality. Since men are the common violaters and abusers, it is suggested that focused investigation and studies of their violence be undertaken. If left unattended, then victimization will be ongoing. The ‘praxis cycle’ model of contextual theology employed will enable a wider scope of research and analysis. The ‘theological heart’ of the research will attempt to forge out new perspectives and dimensions of pastoral care to the perpetrators , with a view for transformation and ultimately prevention of male violence and abuse. Consequentially providing propositions and opportunities to the Church and Christian communities the encouragement to effectively engage with this atrocity and discover preventative interventions. Appropriate action plans based on the Restorative Justice principles will be suggested to enhance the pastoral efforts of the Christian society reaching out to men who are in need, providing determined resolve in reducing male violence. Men need to be held accountable for their violent actions. However such work also requires a compassionate and restorative approach in an attempt to provide them support, as well as to educate other males to encourage changes in their behavior. Theology is a constructive and effective medium that can engineer effective positive mechanisms to provide support and compassion to perpetrators as well as victims – including the forgotten boys trasitioning from victims to perpetrators - in its contribution towards the prevention of male violence against women and children.