Factors associated with domestic violence among married women residing in an urban slum

Abstract

Background: Domestic violence against women is a major public health problem leading to violation of women's human right. It occurs in different forms such as physical, verbal, psychological, and sexual. Domestic violence does not take place itself, there are various reason associated with men and women both. The type of domestic violence and reasons for it differ depending on the associated risk factors. Most commonly seen risk factors are low level of education of both wife and husband, poverty, harmful use of alcohol by husband,and accepting violence as male privilege etcetera. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the factors associated with domestic violence among married women of urban slums. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted among 385 married women aged between 15 and 49 years residing in slum areas. Information was collected on sociodemographic factors and types of domestic violence after obtaining written consent. Pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Chi-square, univariate, and multivariate analysis test was done to find the association of the factors with domestic violence. Results: Domestic violence was statistically associated with the low level of education, low socio-economic status, and employment status of the respondents. It was also associated with education level and alcohol use by their husbands. Conclusions: Women's empowerment as far as education and overall socio-economic development may reduce domestic violence.