Understanding Risk and Protective Factors for Spousal Violence in the Indian Context: Implications for Prevention and Intervention

Abstract

While there is substantial documentation on the widespread occurrence of spousal violence in India, there remains a significant gap in understanding the specific risk and protective factors associated with this phenomenon. Despite numerous studies highlighting the prevalence and various forms of spousal violence, there is limited research focused on identifying the underlying factors that contribute to or mitigate the risk of such violence occurring within marital relationships in the Indian context. Understanding the unique risk and protective factors associated with spousal violence is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies tailored to the Indian context. By identifying the specific factors that contribute to the perpetration or experience of spousal violence, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners can better target resources and interventions to address this complex issue. Research in this area could explore a range of potential risk factors, including sociodemographic variables such as age, education level, socioeconomic status, and marital status, as well as cultural and contextual factors such as gender norms, attitudes towards violence, and exposure to violence in childhood. Additionally, exploring the role of individual factors such as mental health, substance abuse, and coping strategies in the perpetration or experience of spousal violence could provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms at play. Similarly, identifying protective factors that buffer against spousal violence is essential for developing resilience-focused interventions that strengthen individuals, families, and communities. Protective factors may include social support networks, access to education and economic opportunities, empowerment of women, community cohesion, and access to gender-equitable resources and services. Furthermore, research on spousal violence in India should adopt a multidisciplinary and intersectional approach that considers the complex interplay of factors at the individual, relational, community, and societal levels. By examining how various factors intersect and influence one another, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of spousal violence and develop holistic interventions that address its root causes. This study sheds light on the significant relationship between social and economic resources for women and the occurrence of domestic violence. With over half of the study participants reporting having experienced physical spousal violence, and nearly a quarter reporting ongoing violence, the findings underscore the urgent need for action to address this pervasive issue in India. The study highlights the importance of empowering women through access to vocational training, employment opportunities, and participation in social groups. By enhancing women's economic independence and social support networks, they are better equipped to assert their rights, seek help when needed, and break free from abusive relationships. Structural reforms are essential to create an environment where women can thrive and live free from violence. This includes policy interventions aimed at promoting gender equality, improving access to education and healthcare, and strengthening legal protections for victims of domestic violence. Efforts to address domestic violence must also involve community-level initiatives that challenge harmful gender norms and promote respectful and equitable relationships. By engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against domestic violence, we can work towards creating a society where violence against women is no longer tolerated. Ultimately, tackling domestic violence requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of gender inequality and discrimination. Through collaborative efforts involving government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector, we can create a future where all women in India can live free from fear and violence.