Wata, Nelly M.

September 16, 2021

Block 1 Module 6: Family and Domestic Violence

REFLECTION PAPER

CONTEXT: This module was about Filipino family and domestic violence. This topic
involves the sad reality of domestic violence, child abuse and the value of gender equality
in our society. This module emphasizes the skills needed to spot abuse and the care that
can be offered to the victims. During this module, clinical competence and effective
communication was exercised (PO#2), led and managed healthcare teams (PO#3)
collaborated with my groupmates for our podcast assignment (PO#5), and utilized
system-based approach to healthcare (PO#6). Lastly, I used other resources of
information such as WHO and United Nations for Violence Against Women (PO#7) to
further my knowledge.

EXPERIENCE: During our SGD, we were all reminded of the sad reality that domestic
abuse does exist when it should not. As sad and dark it is to talk about rape and abuse, it
is important to be given an emphasis especially on the prevention and immediate care
you can offer to the victims. My groupmates also pointed out interesting topics such as;
why women and children are more prone to domestic violence. It was a relief that my
male classmates are aware of gender inequality (PO #10), it shows that gender inequality
awareness is present.

REFLECTION: From the discussion during SGD, I realized that even though we are
becoming more progressive, domestic violence and child abuse is still prevalent in the
Philippines. Educating people about the cycle and reflecting on their relationships and
actions would raise awareness. Abuse, rape and violence does not need to be a sad
reality but rather a thing that will no longer happen. Indeed, raising awareness about this
problem is important so that the victims will have a voice to share their stories (PO #2)
and to strengthen laws that protect all victims against domestic violence (PO#8).

ACTION: As aspiring doctors, it is our responsibility to have a high index of suspicion in

terms of recognizing domestic violence and child abuse. Also, to be sensitive about
domestic violence and to raise awareness. We can do more than just heal the victim’s
wounds and bruises. It is our responsibility to give them the chance to speak up, report,
and not send them back to the violent environment that once harmed them.

EVALUATION: In a nutshell, the lectures in this module were excellently explained as it

tackled important points that are essential to our future practice. The trigger also
stimulated an insightful discussion which made us learn new things. Indeed, as a future
physician, I must be aware about domestic violence. Unquestionably, everyone deserves
to be treated with respect, support, trust and most importantly, equally.