Young women and domestic violence

Abstract

This research project aims to explore the experience by young women of domestic violence particularly with regards to service provision and legislation. The literature review highlights the various themes that the author took into consideration when conducting the research. Youth is a stage where the individual seeks autonomy from the parents and tries to establish a relationship. This transitional status may be a source of stress. Living in a violent home may increase this strain thus influencing self-esteem. For centuries women have been regarded as the inferior partner and it is only recently that the issue of domestic violence has been given due consideration. Service providers and the legal system should work together to create awareness about domestic violence and promote the idea that domestic violence should never be tolerated. The study is contexualized through an emphasis on the Maltese context. In this study a qualitative research approach was adopted. The data gleaned from the interviews was analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The analysis focused on the three categories that emerged from the data gathered. These were: The cycle of domestic violence, legislation and services, and self-esteem. The study ends with a summary of the main conclusions and makes recommendations for policy, service development and further research.