Community Perceptions on Intimate Partner Violence: A Qualitative Study From Sri Lanka

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) research often overlooks community perspectives.
• Understanding community perceptions is crucial for effective IPV interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore community members' perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Sri Lanka.
• To identify perceived causes and prevention strategies for IPV within the community.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing five focus group discussions and 11 in-depth interviews.
• Involved 34 women and eight men from a Sri Lankan health administrative area.
• Thematic analysis of collected data to develop a community perception model of IPV.

Main Results:

• A community perception model of IPV was developed, integrating individual, relationship, community, and societal levels.
• Identified complex interactions of apparent and underlying determinants contributing to IPV occurrence and continuation.
• Outlined pathways for IPV prevention and response.

Conclusions:

• Community perceptions of IPV are multifaceted, influenced by various ecological levels.
• Findings provide valuable insights into determinants that can inform and enhance IPV interventions.
• Addressing IPV requires interventions tailored to community-specific understandings and contexts.