A Study to Assess the Prevalence of Domestic Violence among Married Women of Delhi

To assess the prevalence of domestic violence among the married women of Delhi.

A cross-sectional survey was designed to assess the prevalence of domestic violence among the married women of Delhi. A total of 300 women were conveniently enrolled from various zones of Delhi. A structured questionnaire for demographic variables was developed by researchers. To assess the prevalence of domestic violence among married women, a ‘Domestic Violence checklist’, prepared by the National Violence Hotline, Oklahoma, was modified by the researcher.

The study results reveal that all forms of violence were present among married women of Delhi. The highest forms of violence reported by the subjects were look or act in a ways that scare (39.3%), followed by control what to do or where to go (32.7%). Least reported violence was hurt sexually or does intercourse against will (3.3%). All forms of violence were associated with demographic variables and most of associations were statistically significant.

Over the last two decades, domestic violence has emerged as one of the most serious problems faced by women. They are experiencing physical and psychological violence not only from their in-laws but also often from their intimate partners. This situation has public health implications as public health can have a role in preventing the violence, and its health consequences It also seeks collaboration from state agencies, Non Governmental Organisations (NGO's) and corporate sector to deliver extensive services for people who are suffering from domestic violence.