Practicing Political Economy: Anthropology and Domestic Violence Advocacy

Abstract

Domestic violence affects a quarter of women in the United States over the course of their lifetime and includes physical assault, sexual violence, emotional abuse, and stalking behavior perpetrated by a spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, or live-in partner (Tjaden and Thoennes 2000). The profound number of individuals affected by domestic violence has given rise to the domestic violence shelter service sector. Domestic violence shelters in the United States are a result of the process of organizing for social change to address the problem of domestic violence and serve as the primary intervention mechanism for violence against women. Shelters provide safety and refuge for victims, as well as basic needs such as housing and food. In addition, domestic violence centers offer continuing support for victims of violence through casework, advocacy, counseling, and other services.