Experiences of gender-based violence among women whose spouses are drug addicts

This study was conducted to identify the domestic and gender-based problems experienced by women whose spouses are addicted to drugs. The present study was conducted using a phenomenological design from qualitative research methods. The sample consisted of 22 women whose husbands were admitted to the hospital due to substance addiction. These subjects were selected using a purposive sampling method. The study data were collected with a semi-structured interview form, and an inductive content analysis technique was used to analyze the data. The marital experiences of women married to substance-addicted men were categorized according to the following themes: (1) The effect of addiction on marriage; (2) Domestic violence; (3) The reaction of the environment; (4) What is desired to change. Women reported that their husbands' addiction led to a decrease in their husbands' interest in them and their children, that they were exposed to different types of violence, that they experienced economic problems, and that they were under pressure from their close environment to divorce. Addiction has been shown to have a profound impact not only on the individual struggling with the condition but also on their immediate family members and the broader social environment. The family unit is often subjected to a variety of challenges, including social isolation, financial hardship, and an increased risk of domestic violence. In cases of addiction, it is recommended that the focus be shifted toward addressing the needs of the spouse and family members rather than solely on the health services that are typically focused on the addicted individual.