Strategies against domestic violence and its consequences amongst Iranian women: A review study

Abstract

Background and aims: Domestic violence against women is a problem that might cause irreparable damage to women’s health. This study aims to review the studies on the strategies regarding domestic violence against women in Iran. Methods: This study is a narrative review of published articles on strategies to prevent domestic violence against women in Iran from 2009 to 2019. Two scholars on valid databases searched. Articles were selected based on the time and setting of studies, purpose, and research structure framework. The full text of the articles and the publication language were included in the study. The quality of the articles was assessed using the "checklist of original research articles," which comprises five sections; the structure of the abstract, the title and introduction, the review method, the results, the conclusion, and the keywords. The general opinion of the reviewer was also taken into consideration. Results: 13 eligible articles were reviewed, including 11 in Persian and 2 in English. The finding of the reviews indicated the interventions implemented to reduce and prevent domestic violence against women in Iran. These interventions focused on life skills in three categories (a) Communication and Interpersonal Skills (such as resilience based on spirituality, mindfulness techniques, motivational interview, and emotionally focused couple therapy), (b) decision-making and critical thinking skills, including problem-solving, decision-making, narrative exposure therapy, and conflict resolution related to domestic violence against women), and (c) coping and self-management skills (such as anger management, marital adjustment, and self-defense). Conclusion: The effective implementation of life skills can serve as practical methods to prevent domestic violence against women.