So what can be done to keep Alaska's name out of the headlines when it comes to these negative statistics? Certainly efforts are made and support groups are created to assist with those suffering from abuse associated with domestic violence, but we can do more to further make the process and resources more acceptable and accessible. Educating everyone on domestic violence in Alaska, no matter the location, should be the goal for advocates and supporters state wide.
Teaching our youth that it is never acceptable to abuse another individual is a first step in reducing and ultimately preventing domestic violence. When one is responsible for another human, they're not only responsible for caring for them physically, but mentally as well. A parent or guardian is tasked with teaching a child right from wrong, giving them stability and structure in order to become well rounded individuals. "Youth often name their parents as the greatest influence on their decisions around relationships" (ANDVSA, n.d., Parent Engagement). However, what happens when these children are not provided with adequate examples of how to interact in our society as well as in their own personal lives? Without the basic ability to differentiate right from wrong, youth are left with only the influence of those around them to set an example of what is perceived as acceptable and unacceptable. Being raised in a violent or abusive home, sets an example for what is accepted when it comes to interacting with loved ones. "Boys who witness domestic violence are twice as likely to abuse their own partners and children when they become adults" (Domestic Violence Facts: Alaska, n.d.). You would think that parents would recognize just how much of an example they set for their own children, and make every effort to provide a positive environment. Unfortunately once an example is set in an adult's life, they are at a higher risk of passing on what they see as acceptable in their own relationships, to their children.
