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Abstract
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Domestic violence (DV), which can be described as a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse committed within an intimate relationship, is a major global concern (1). DV-associated stigma can multiply the risk by preventing victims from help-seeking. Therefore, preventive measures should be taken in different stages. Here, after pointing out the significance of DV and its related stigma as a global social problem and briefly reviewing the available smartphone preventive solutions, we will shortly introduce "Be my Voice" as the first faculty-based Iranian app targeting DV victims.
DV can affect all genders and age groups, mostly women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable individuals (2). It is estimated that overall, one in every three women experiences violence, physically and/or sexually, at some point in their lives (3). Studies have shown a higher prevalence of DV among women in Iran (66%) (4). This difference in prevalence may be rooted in social, economic, and cultural differences (5, 6).
DV can affect the victims not only physically but also mentally. These mental impacts can be severe and long-lasting. Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal behaviors are examples of psychological problems caused by exposure to violence (7-9).
The COVID-19 pandemic has added even more complexity to this issue. Different studies have shown an increase in DV during COVID-19 confinement and lockdown periods (10-12). On the other hand, isolation at home has deprived many victims of telephone helplines, services, finance, informal social supports, or safe shelter, making the situation harder for the victims (10-12).
One of the problems facing this global issue is that we can only see a small proportion of DV while a significant amount of it remains unreported. Feeling ashamed and fear of being alienated by the society alongside unawareness, financial barriers, cultural beliefs, not feeling secure, and the threat of losing children and support leads to this under-reporting (13). Despite the high prevalence of DV throughout history, DV victims still experience high levels of stigma from different sources. Stigma is made of labeling, stereotyping, and separation that can cause status loss and discrimination. Different types of stigma faced by victims might include internalized stigma, anticipated stigma, enacted stigma, cultural stigma, and perpetrator stigma (14). Stigma in DV victims could cause negative feelings and shame due to isolation and loss of social status, therefore plays an important role in reducing help-seeking behavior...
Language: en |