Citation

Kelmendi K. J. Interpers. Violence 2015; 30(4): 680-702.

Affiliation

Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic University of Prishtina, Kosova kaltrina.kelmendi@uni-pr.edu.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0886260514535255

PMID

24923893

Abstract

Research on gender-based violence describes domestic violence by male partners as a major public health issue and serious human rights violation. Many studies have been conducted in Kosovo to understand the factors that contribute to violence against women. The present study aims to examine the experiences of battered women and their understanding of the violence from an ecological framework, by asking questions regarding personal, situational, and socio-cultural factors. The study is qualitative, consisting of 50 in-depth interviews with victims of domestic violence, and uses a grounded theory approach to identify main themes of the women's experiences.

FINDINGS from the study suggest that poverty, a patriarchal culture, strictly defined gender roles, and lack of programs for reintegrating victims subordinate women and leave them susceptible to domestic violence.

Language: en