Patterns of Violence Experienced by Women Victims of Domestic Violence in Bengaluru City: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Domestic violence has negative effects on the physical health and mental health of women. Domestic violence takes various forms physical, psychological, sexual, and emotional abuse. Many organizations are working with women and their families to prevent and reduce instances of violence. The current study aimed to understand the various patterns of violence among women victims of domestic violence. Materials and Methods The sample of 30 women approaching the women’s helpline, in Bengaluru was considered for the study using a cross-sectional design. The interview schedule for assessing patterns of violence was used. Descriptive statistics were used for analyzing the data. Results The majority of the respondents (50%) were in the age group of 20–29 years, more than half (53.3%) were homemaker and the majority (70%) stayed in nuclear family structures. More than one-fourth reported severe physical violence such as pushing, slapping, and punching. Most of the respondents reported husbands to be perpetrators of violence, 60% reported violence as a habit, and the majority reported dowry harassment as the reason for violence. Conclusion Mental health professionals need to work on the root cause of habitual violence and dowry harassment perpetrated by the spouse and empower the victims.