Citation

Avni N. Int. Rev. Victimology 1992; 2(2): 127-135.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, World Society of Victimology, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/026975809200200203

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Based on unconstructed interviews with thirty-five Israeli battered wives taking refuge in a shelter, this study analyzes patterns of economic exchange between them and their husbands. The norms concerning breadwinning and housekeeping are similar throughout western society, and men and women are conscious of the familial role expectations that are ascribed to them. Nevertheless, it was found that in practice battering husbands do not subscribe to these social norms, for it is more often their wives who bear the burden of providing for the family, in addition to their housekeeping duties. This situation throws new light on the unique victimizer--victimized exchange system in intimate relations. It was also found that battered wives whose husbands earn a good living sustain different, yet no less severe, forms of economic-related victimization. Their husbands exact payment for their financial support in the form of absolute obedience and submissiveness. It seems that these men regard their earnings not as an obligation in the family exchange-net, but rather as a favor that entitles them to receive extra benefit in return.

Language: en