Violência interseccional: a teoria do link, a coerção de mulheres por meio de animais e o papel da educação animalista

Erika Zanoni Fagundes Cunha; José Sebastião Fagundes Cunha; Bruno Zanoni

doi:10.23925/ddem.v.2.n.14.71790

Authors

Erika Zanoni Fagundes Cunha Centro de Ensino Superior de Campos Gerais, CESCAGE, Ponta Grossa, PR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5940-1122
José Sebastião Fagundes Cunha Universidade federal do Paraná - UFPR - Curitiba, PR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9415-0493
Bruno Zanoni FAE Centro Universitário, Curitiba, PR https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8005-2949

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23925/ddem.v.2.n.14.71790

Keywords:

Link Theory, Animal Law, Domestic Violence, Animal Cruelty

Abstract

This article explores the Link Theory, which posits a significant correlation between animal cruelty and various forms of interpersonal violence, including domestic abuse, child maltreatment, and other violent crimes. Grounded in the work of Dr. Frank R. Ascione and recognized by institutions such as the FBI, the theory asserts that mistreatment of animals often precedes, coexists with, or signals violent behavior toward humans. Relevant data, including findings from the Military Police of São Paulo State, reveal recurrent patterns in both urban and rural contexts, showing a clear connection between domestic violence and animal abuse. One alarming statistic indicates that approximately 50% of women experiencing domestic violence report that their abusers have threatened, injured, or killed their companion animals as a form of emotional control. This analysis underscores the urgency of integrated actions, including humane education, public awareness, primary prevention policies, and the strengthening of multidisciplinary approaches. The methodology is based on a theoretical-reflective approach, supported by an interdisciplinary literature review that includes references from the fields of Law, Psychology, Veterinary Medicine, and Social Sciences, to understand the correlations between interpersonal violence and cruelty to animals. Understanding the link between violence against animals and interpersonal violence is essential to disrupting cycles of abuse and fostering a culture of peace and respect for all forms of life.

Author Biographies

Erika Zanoni Fagundes Cunha, Centro de Ensino Superior de Campos Gerais, CESCAGE, Ponta Grossa, PR

PhD in Zoology from the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) and a postdoctoral degree in Animal Law. He holds a degree in Veterinary Medicine from the Federal University of Paraná. His postgraduate studies included specializations in Clinical Neuroscience, Neuromanagement, Neuromarketing, Pain Management and Palliative Care, Medicinal Cannabis, and Animal Law. His postgraduate studies include a master's degree in Veterinary Science from the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR). He taught in higher education from 2006 to 2022 and currently focuses on offering in-person courses and producing digital content. He is a member of the Animal Behavior Society, the Brazilian Society of Neuroscience and Behavior, and the Brazilian Society of Ethology. He coordinates the Mascotes da Alegria group.

José Sebastião Fagundes Cunha, Universidade federal do Paraná - UFPR - Curitiba, PR

PhD from the Federal University of Paraná and Post-Doctorate from the University of Coimbra - Center for Social Studies, Advisor Boaventura de Sousa Santos. Graduated in Law from the Faculty of Law of Southern Minas Gerais, Master's from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. PhD in Law of Social Relations. Master's in Law of Social Relations. Specialization Course in Criminal Sciences from UFPR. Full Professor of the Faculty of Law of CESSCAGE, of which he founded and authored the philosophical-didactic-pedagogical project with the CMB Concept of the SESu of the MEC, the OAB Federal Council and the State Council. General Director of the Judicial School of Latin America and former Pedagogical Director of the Judicial School of Mercosur. Member of the Brazilian Institute of Procedural Law. Member of the Editorial Board - Research of the Process Journal of the Editora Revista dos Tribunais. Associate of the Brazilian Institute of Consumer Policy and Rights. Full Member of the Center of Letters of Paraná. Full Member of the José de Alencar Academy of Letters. Holder of Chair 19 of the Academy of Letters of Campos Gerais. Member of the Center for Latin American Studies of the College of Presidents of State Judicial Schools - COPEDEM. Member of the Justice and Politics Research Group - UFPB. Member of the PRUNART Research Group - UFMG. Former President of the Paraná Institute of Procedural Law. Scientific Council of the International Network of Jurists for American Integration.

Bruno Zanoni, FAE Centro Universitário, Curitiba, PR

He is a law student at FAE Centro Universitário, with a strong interest in environmental law and sustainability. He currently works as an intern at the renowned law firm Arruda Alvim, Aragão, Lins Sato, where he has the opportunity to work on complex cases and develop his legal skills. Previously, he had the enriching experience of interning at the Court of Justice, where he was able to enhance his understanding of the judicial system and gain valuable insights into civil proceedings.

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