An Exploratory Study on the Contexts of Domestic Violence in Gondar Town, Northwest Ethiopia
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Date
2005-07
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Background: Increasingly domestic violence is being recognized as an important public health
concern. However, we know little how and why domestic violence occurs.
Objective: To obtain in-depth contextual insights about domestic violence
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in Gondar town between December 2004 and
February 2005 involving women, men, victims, abusers, “Yager Shimaglies,” legal bodies and
professionals with vested interest and/or expertise in gender issues. Six focus group discussions
and five in-depth interviews were carried out with purposively selected subjects. OpenCode
software was used to code, search and sort data and conceptual framework was constructed
following grounded theory approach.
Results: Contextual factors (ideological, economic and politico-legal factors) deny women equal
opportunity as men contributing to their subordination, predispose them to abuse and justify and
perpetuate violence. Causal conditions (like economic reasons, drinking and sexual
incompatibility) give rise to discontent and misunderstanding in marriage. Intervening
conditions, which depend on gender norms, attitude and skills in conflict management and
individual socioeconomic standing, determine whether conflicts will grow into violence.
Conclusion: Domestic violence is rooted in the socioeconomic, cultural and politico-legal
context that upholds men dominance. IEC, empowerment of women and reforming laws and
translating them into action are recommended.
Keywords: domestic violence, qualitative study, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews,
OpenCode, grounded theory
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Keywords
Domestic Violence, Qualitative study, Focus group discussions, In-depth interviews, OpenCode, grounded theory