Spain's victory over England sparks domestic violence concerns
3:04 PM EDT, July 15, 2024
On Sunday, June 14, the European Football Championship officially ended. The team from Spain defeated the England team 2-1. The British are lamenting that, once again, football did not come home. Scientists have linked the English team's defeats to a growing percentage of domestic violence.
Football is one of the most popular sports in the world. It is loved in every corner of the earth. During the Copa America, fans from South America faint and even suffer heart attacks or strokes due to the emotions they experience. In Europe, the emotional intensity of the matches of beloved teams is at a similar level. Unfortunately, in England, men choose a terrifying way to cope with their emotions after watching the national team's game. Research shows that they vent their frustrations on their partners.
The European Football Championship ended on Sunday, June 14. In the final match, Spain and England faced each other. British fans believed that this time, they would win the trophy. Unfortunately, the cup went to the Spaniards. British charities warn that this may lead to a rise in reported cases of domestic violence in the UK.
Domestic violence in England after the lost Euro 2024 match increases?
Charities in the United Kingdom fear that fans of the England national team will take out their frustration on their loved ones after a lost match in the Euro 2024 final. They recall research conducted in 2014 by Lancaster University, which clearly showed that from 2002 to 2010, there was a 38-percent increase in domestic violence cases when England lost a match and a 26-percent increase when they won. The research also highlighted that fans often drink alcohol while watching tournaments, which can negatively affect their behavior.
Football is not to blame for violence
"It is really important to realize that football does not cause domestic violence. However, during the tournament, when fans experience heightened emotions and excessive drinking becomes the norm, we certainly hear about more cases of domestic violence and aggressive behavior," said Sue Harper from the Hestia charity in an interview with the media.
Workers from the Hestia and Women's Aid organizations remind that anyone who experiences domestic violence after the European Championship can count on their help. A campaign called "No More Years of Hurt" is ongoing on social media. Its goal is to raise awareness among Britons about domestic violence during and after the tournament. It also reminds victims that they can report to banks or pharmacies. These places provide them with shelter.