JEDDAH: Various issues relating to domestic violence, including the Islamic and legal perspectives on it and how to stop it, were discussed on the first day of a two-day seminar on family violence on Tuesday.

Various sessions were held on the first day of the seminar, which was opened by Jeddah Gov. Prince Mishal bin Majed on behalf of Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal.

Dr. Sulaiman Al-Ghadyan, a psychology consultant, delivered a paper on treating victims and their abusers both medically and psychologically.

He further described sex abuse to be the most heinous of physical abuse against children, especially young girls, adding that this would have a serious impact on them when they grow up.

“A girl who was sexually molested might become a predator herself when she grows up, she might also have a phobia against marrying or develop problems in her sex life with her husband,” said Al-Ghadyan.

The seminar will end on Wednesday with the issuing of a set of recommendations. Academics who delivered working papers and the hosts of the seminar’s various sessions will be honored during the concluding session.

Meanwhile, Ali Al-Hanaki, director of Social Affairs in Makkah, told Arab News that a number of shelter homes are to be established in the region under the directives of Prince Khaled. Al-Hanaki said the governor has asked 10 government departments, including the Ministry of Justice, the police and the Prosecution and Investigation Commission, to expedite the establishment of such homes.