Citation

Dekel B, Abrahams N, Andipatin M. J. Fam. Violence 2019; 34(1): 9-20.

Affiliation

2Psychology Department, The University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s10896-018-9964-5

PMID

30686856

PMCID

PMC6325095

Abstract

Violence against women and violence against children are distinct research fields. Quantitative studies have demonstrated their intersection, but qualitative data provides an opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of this interface. Interviews with 22 parents/caregivers convicted of child homicide provided an opportunity to explore the context of violent experiences in their lives including their use of violence and their experiences of it in their intimate and parenting relationships. Using a feminist framework, we found that patriarchal family structures, gender and power dynamics contribute to the use of violence. Revenge child homicide was common with distinct gendered differences. This study calls for closer collaboration between the two fields to assist in developing prevention interventions to address and eradicate both forms of violence.

Language: en

Keywords

Child homicide; South Africa; Violence against women and children