Women and domestic violence: global dimensions, health consequences and intervention strategies

Domestic violence against women is a significant health and social problem affecting virtually all societies. The sensitivities and stigma associated with domestic violence, the conceptualization of it primarily as a judicial and legal issue, and the lack of data on the dimensions of abuse have hampered understanding and the development of appropriate interventions. Secrecy, insufficient evidence, and social and legal barriers continue to make it difficult to acquire data on domestic violence against women. This paper describes the magnitude and health consequences of domestic violence. It explores factors that perpetuate violence against women, and discusses intervention strategies from around the world.