Victims of domestic abuse and their choice of holding onto the abusive relationship : a professionals' perspective

Abstract

This research study explores the impacts domestic abuse may have on the victim and how these effect the decision of the victim of whether to stay or to leave the abusive relationship. The choice of title is motivated by the fact that little is known on the hurdles victims of domestic abuse face, when it comes to leaving an abusive relationship. A qualitative approach has been adopted to explore in detail the professional‟s perspective in relation to the victim‟s choice of holding on to the abusive relationship. Seven semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with professionals working in the field of domestic abuse. Thematic Analysis was adopted as a means of data analysis. Several factors including; self-esteem and self-worth, mental health, fear and safety, traditional and cultural values, shame, dependency of the victim, isolation , vulnerability of children, commitment to the abusive relationship and hope for change, were examined to better understand what influences such a decision. Results concluded from this study show that, the choice in ether staying or leaving the abusive relationship may be complex and influenced by multiple factors. Most of the findings emerging from the primary research conducted were in congruence with the available research.