Perception of Service Providers on Help-Seeking Among Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is significant social issue that determines the psychological and physical well-being of women globally. About 30% of women globally are estimated by the World Health Organization in 2013 to have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives at the hands of an intimate partner. National Family Health Survey from 2019 to 2021 states that regardless of whether they live in an urban or rural area, relatively few of these women ask for assistance. Goodman et al. (2003) opines that women must seek help to leave abusive situations, but this process is hampered by several obstacles, involving social stigma, ignorance, and insufficient support networks. In this context, service providers play an integral role in addressing these challenges. The current study was primarily a descriptive research design that was concerned with service providers after one year of service provision in the area of concern. The knowledge of their perceptions can be used to illuminate the weaknesses and successes of the current support structures, making them more survivor-oriented in their intervention. This study contributes to bridging the gap between survivors’ needs and the effectiveness of services offered, which remains an under-researched area, particularly in the Indian context.