42 - Violence against Women

Abstract

Research indicates that many forms of violence are prevalent in women's lives. Both physical and psychological violence can occur from perpetrators who are strangers, acquaintances, family members, or partners. These experiences exist throughout women's lives. They never outgrow their concerns, fears, and the need to cope with violence. Thus, fear of violence permeates the lives of all women, influencing their decisions, impacting their psychological and physical health, and limiting their options. Violence exists across cultures and women's perspectives of violence have been shaped not only by this widespread awareness of violence but also by historical events that continue to influence women's lives. Health care settings have largely been relegated the role of attending to the acute physical consequences with little involvement in prevention or intervention efforts. However, the health care system offers, potentially, one of the most powerful systems for implementing change. Violence remains one of the most important public health crises in many communities.