General practitioners and managing domestic violence: results of a qualitative study in Germany

A qualitative interview based study on ways of addressing and managing domestic violence (DV) by general practitioners (GPs) is presented. Problem centred semi-structured topic-guided interviews were conducted with 10 male and nine female GPs. Transcribed passages were analysed with the deductive approach of qualitative content analysis. Female doctors gave broader definitions of DV. Addressing of DV by a patient was perceived as a demand to act by all doctors. Documentation of injuries was considered to be important. Time constraints, feelings of being ashamed and helpless were described as barriers in addressing DV. Female doctors reported being anxious about losing their professional distance in cases of female victims. While female participants tend to take an 'acting' role in managing cases of DV by being responsible for treatment and finding a solution in collaboration with the patient, male doctors preferred an 'organising' role, assisting patients finding further help. Definitions of DV and differences in addressing the issue seemed to be strongly affected by personal professional experience. Definitions of DV, personal barriers in addressing the subject and understanding of the own role in management and treatment of DV cases differed between male and female doctors. Pre-existing definitions of DV, personal experience and gender aspects have to be taken into account when planning educational programmes for GPs on the issue of DV.