Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Effect of Domestic Violence
Effect of Domestic Violence
Effect of Domestic Violence
COUNTY.
GLADYS KARIA
FEBRUARY 2023
DECLARATION
I, that this is my original work and has never been presented to any institution or university for
any academic award.
Signature: …………………………………….
GLADYS KARIA
The Maasai Mara University supervisor approved the study project before it was submitted.
Sign: Date:
Lecturer supervising.
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DEDICATION
I dedicate my report to my family, who have always supported me during this study time with
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
My thanks go out to my supervisor,Mr. Amadi for his essential suggestions and direction in
making this study endeavor successful. Above all, I give thanks to God for empowering me to
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION.......................................................................................................................................ii
DEDICATION..........................................................................................................................................iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.......................................................................................................................iv
LIST OF TABLES.................................................................................................................................viii
LIST OF FIGURES..................................................................................................................................ix
ABSTRACT...............................................................................................................................................x
CHAPTER ONE........................................................................................................................................1
1.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1
CHAPTER TWO.......................................................................................................................................6
LITERATURE REVIEW.........................................................................................................................6
2.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................6
v
2.3.2 Domestic Physical Violence.....................................................................................................10
2.4.1 Psychological............................................................................................................................12
2.4.2 Jealousy....................................................................................................................................12
2.4.3 Behavioral.................................................................................................................................12
CHAPTER THREE.................................................................................................................................17
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...........................................................................................................17
3.0 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................17
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3.4.2 Quota Sampling........................................................................................................................18
3.5.2 Observation...............................................................................................................................19
3. 6 Data sources....................................................................................................................................19
CHAPTER FOUR...................................................................................................................................22
4.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................22
CHAPTER FIVE.....................................................................................................................................32
vii
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION...............................................................32
5.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................32
5.3 Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................34
5.4 Recommendations...........................................................................................................................34
REFERENCES........................................................................................................................................36
APPENDICES..............................................................................................................................................i
LIST OF TABLES
viii
Table 1: Age distribution of the respondents.................................................................................22
Table 3 showing Education Level of the Respondents..................................................................24
Table 6 displays the various forms of domestic violence..............................................................29
Table 7: Various causes of domestic violence...............................................................................30
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1: Conceptual Framework...............................................................................................16
Figure 1: Showing the distribution age of respondents.................................................................23
Table 2 showing the marital status of the study respondents........................................................23
Figure 2 shows marital status of respondents................................................................................24
Figure 3 shows Education Level of the Respondents....................................................................25
Figure 4 illustrates the occupation of the study respondents.........................................................27
Figure 5 below shows various effects of domestic violence on women........................................29
Figure 6 shows the forms of domestic violence............................................................................30
Figure 7: Major causes of domestic violence................................................................................31
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ABSTRACT
Domestic violence is a large social issue in today’s contemporary setting, which may include but
not limited to, sibling abuse, elder abuse, spouse abuse, and child abuse. Domestic violence has
many names; family violence, wife or child beating, and domestic abuse. Spouse abuse talks
about abuse from a marital or a dating partner in an intimate relationship. Domestic violence is
merely not just physical, but is any behavior that is intended to control another person through
the use of verbal assaults. Wife battery affects the physical and psychological wellbeing of the
abused women and even that of their children. It is on this premise that this paper discusses the
meaning of domestic violence against women, types of intimate partner violence, effects of these
types of violence on abused women. This undertaking aims to determine the effects of domestic
violence on women. This paper also discusses causes and management of domestic violence
against women. This study utilizes the descriptive research design which focuses only in
describing the effects of domestic violence on women-respondents. Purposive sampling is
utilized in identifying the subjects of the study which covers only women who had witnessed
domestic violence at home were taken as samples. An interview schedule and a structured
questionnaire were also used in gathering the data. These were pre-tested validated before these
were finally administered to the respondents.
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CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction
Domestic violence is a large social issue in today’s contemporary setting, which may include but
not limited to, sibling abuse, elder abuse, spouse abuse, and child abuse. Domestic violence is
merely not just physical, but is any behavior that is intended to control another person through
the use of verbal assaults. Domestic violence is a very important social issue because it has a
large negative affect on the victims. Even though domestic violence can be caused by either male
or female it is usually caused by the male due to the large physical advantage. Domestic violence
today is very common in households, but little is being done to stop it.
Domestic violence is a complicated and difficult issue to study and the research findings are
inconsistent (Khan, 2015). DV against women which encompasses physical, mental, financial,
sexual and spiritual abuse that disproportionately impact on women, is a violation of women’s
fundamental rights with respect to dignity, equality and access to justice. Its impact stretches
beyond those women who are themselves victims of violence, since it affects families, friends
and society as a whole.
Domestic violence is a leading cause of women's death and incapacity globally. In addition to
facing physical and psychological trauma and injury, women who suffer domestic violence are at
a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections including HIV/ AIDS. They may also
face unintended pregnancies, adverse pregnancy outcomes and chronic health problems.
Survivors of domestic violence often suffer rejection and further victimization from partners,
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family and community members due to the shame and stigma associated with such violations
(Okioma and Kimani 2007).
In Africa and specifically in Botswana, a study carried out between the years 2010 and 2011
showed that over 67% women have experienced domesatic violence in their life time including
partner and non-partner violence. At least 44% of men admit to perpetrating violence against
women. In 2011 alone, 29% of women experienced violence perpetrated by men. Nearly 1/3 of
women (29%) experienced Intimate Partner Violence (lPV) in twelve months. In contrast, only
1.2% of Botswana women reported cases of domestic to relevant authorities in the same period.
Thus, the prevalence of domestic violence reported in the survey is 24 times higher than that
reported by the police. This suggests that levels of domestic violence are far higher than those
recorded in official statistics.
Mutua (2009) notes that gender-based violence against women takes place at all levels of society
and within all social classes, In Kenya such violence is sexual, political, sadistic or criminal. He
further notes that domestic violence is in the home. He concludes that "Kenya has an epidemic of
domestic violence", Njenga (2001). On the other hand, notes that wife-battery; wife-murder.
rape. and other forms of domestic violence are possible because men see themselves in a
superior-subordinate role towards women.
The situation in Kenya is not very different as reported in Nyeri (Muthoni, 2012) and Mombasa
Counties. The Kenya Survey 2008-2009 by FIDA alludes that 39% of women had reported
having been physically or sexually assaulted during their lifetime with 74% of the respondents in
the Coast, Nairobi, Nyanza and Western regions having been physically abused in their
homesteads. lnspite of Article 28 and 29 of the Kenya Constitution providing for the protection
and respect of human dignity, there has been a drastic increase in the number of victims of
domestic violence from 299 in 2006, 412 in 2007 and over 500 in 2008.
In Narok County, studies showed that more than half the women have experienced physical
sexual or psychological violence in their homes with their intimate partners. It is from this
background that this study was conducted with the aim of shedding light on this retrogressive
practice with particular attention being paid towards identifying the effects of domestic violence
on women in Narok County.
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1.2 Statement of the problem.
Domestic violence is a devastating social problem that impacts every segment of the population.
While system responses are primarily targeted toward adult victims of abuse, increased attention
is now being focused on the women who witness domestic violence
In the Kenya, the frequency is not encouraging either. We learn that almost 65 % of the reported
domestic violence is committed against women and women by the male heads of the family. In
addition, there exist many other similar cases that are never reported and they are higher in rural
areas compared to urban ones. The Congolese Females Action for Promoting Rights and
Development reveals that this situation remains very alarming in remote villages where most
population, particularly women and girls are uneducated.
Considering this high occurrence of domestic assault in the Kenya, and particularly in Narok
County, one wonders if the abusers are aware of the social destruction this disgusting and
shameful practice causes the victims, families and the nation. Therefore, this research intends to
establish the effect of domestic violence on women using a case study of Narok County.
3
1.6 Scope of the study.
The study was carried out at Narok County in Kenya. Narok County is a county in Kenya with
an estimated population of 1,157,873 according to the 2019 Census, with the dominant ethnic
group being the Maasai. Its capital and largest town is Narok. The study should cover a time
scope of two months. The choice of this period will be sufficient as it will be enough to survey
the field and gather establish information from the respondents and also it will be ample time for
the researcher to compile the final research project.
Given that there are studies on the topic which have taken the context of the proposed study; that
of giving attention to victims of, the findings will go a long way in giving insights into the
features of domestic violence in Narok County. The findings may be utilized to inform policy
makers on the need to raise awareness on domestic violence and strategies of managing domestic
violence menace in the counties. The study findings will also form basis for further research by
other scholars.
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1.9 limitations of the study
The study had limitations that restricted the researcher to come up with the desired outcomes.
These included limited financial resources, time constraints and unavailability of some key
respondents including the judicial officers.
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction.
According to Terre Blanche and Durrheim (1999:79), a literature review aids in integrating the
findings of earlier studies on a subject. As a result, the literature on domestic violence against
women is included in this area. Yet, it also provides a basic review of violence and addresses the
various manifestations, root causes, side effects, and cultural norms of domestic violence.
Finally, it goes into detail about the connection between power, masculinity, and gender-based
violence after discussing its ubiquity.
An example is Gender Based Violence. This kind of violence can be perpetrated by a sex on the
other; thus, both men and women can be victims (Arias and Pape, 1999). Generally, gender
inequality causes men to abuse women and girls without fear as the latter are considered as
'inferior'. However, occasionally, women also abuse family members by revenge. For instance,
violent women have caused awful injuries to their victims by burning, biting or cutting them with
a sharp tool and at times they refuse food to women and husbands (Nangolo and Peltzer, 2003).
Physical assault is another illustration of violence. This is the acute form or abusive stage of
violence, as argued by Nangolo and Peltzer (2003). In this form of violence, serious bodily
injuries are inflicted to the victim.
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2.2 Theoretical Framework.
Domestic violence has been approached within various frameworks and viewpoints. These
frameworks provide knowledge as well as understanding regarding violence problems. There are
two general theoretical levels that underpinned this study; the first is the Gendered Resource
Theory and the second is from the perspective of sociocultural.
Understanding the predictors of domestic violence is the longstanding goals of macro social
research. This stream of research has several key components. Drawing on Atkinson, Greenstein,
and Lang (2005) work, there are three general versions of theories on how resources affect the
prevalence of domestic violence against woman. Two social structural views generally used to
describe domestic violence against women are resource theory and relative resource theory. The
level of resources has been identified as the primary predictor of domestic violence against
women. According to these authors, resource theory refers to married men who have few
resources to offer while for relative resource theory refers to those married men who have fewer
resources than their wives.
Specifically, both theories reflect the possession of resources as the primary predictor of
domestic violence against women, which is typically operationalized as education, earnings, or
employment. The perpetrators use violence to gain obedience and compliance in the absence of
resources (Atkinson, Greenstein, & Lang, 2005) as they view it as a power base, as an alternative
to material resources. Relatively more women resources could increase violence due to the stress
caused by status instability (Heise, 2011; Gracia & Merlo; 2016). On the other hand, scholars
have recently argued that relatively less women resources could lead to more violence due to
marital dependency (Davis & Greenstein, 2009).
Extending this logic, resource theory has been refined to maximize the prediction that husbands’
gender ideologies are critical, where the degree to which men hold breadwinner ideals is
important. Gender ideologies are how one identifies oneself with regard to marital status which
range from ‘traditional’ (viewed by the belief that husbands should be primary breadwinners and
wives should remain at home) to ‘egalitarian’ (viewed by the belief that women’s share in total
7
household income is crucial). Thus, gender ideology acts as a lens whereby individuals view
their social world and make decisions.
In keeping with these views, Atkinson et al. (2005), who observed the husband’s gender
ideology and its relationship with women’s share of household earnings, found that the women’s
share in total household earnings is positively related to risk of violence only when husband is
traditional. From the view of gendered resource theory, women who are primary breadwinners
and who have traditional husbands are at the highest risk of violence. Structural explanations of
women abuse from these resource theories namely, resource, relative and gendered resource
theory emphasize violence as compensation for husbands’ shortage of resources. These theories
have received wide support (Gracia & Merlo, 2016). From a social point of view, these theories
say that men are the head of the family and have the power to maintain dominance in the family
(Davis & Greenstein, 2009).
Violence is not a single kind of activity, generally, it involves socially category of activities that
share some common features. Violence has been described as social phenomenon. Rather than
look inside the perpetrator for the causes of violence, social-cultural perspectives look in the
social situation for factors that may explain why violence varies in frequency and intensity
(Lawson, 2012). This study is intended to help prevent violence by highlighting the
understandings of the social-cultural integration influences that could contribute in combating
domestic violence.
Individual experiences become social when they are share or communicate their experiences to
others. It is the combined experiences of many individuals, shared in these ways that makes up a
culture or a society. Within cultures and societies shared experiences are organized into
categories of events referred to variously as concepts, constructs, and schemas (Blume, 1996).
The social approach to domestic violence includes both formal and informal understandings
whereby it values on the common compared to the individual experience. Because of this
emphasis on shared experience in social groupings, social theories are most useful in suggesting
ways in which behaviour change can be accomplished by addressing social phenomena rather
than by attempting to alter the individual (Dobash & Dobash, 2015). Violence is a result of
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power differences between social groups (gender, social class, age). Social norms provide
society with guidelines as to how people should act and how their emotions should be expressed.
Therefore, social norms control the power distribution within society that examines violence in
terms of socially structured inequality, and social cultural norms and attitudes.
Social Learning Theory is come under socio cultural perspectives which views that children who
either experience violence themselves or who witness violence between their parents are more
likely to use violence when they grow up (Bandura, 1971; Mihalic & Elliott, 1997). As
mentioned earlier, family institution is a crucial foundation in the whole framework of the
construction and continuity of the social development in community. The destruction of this
institution means the destruction of the community itself. It is the place where people learn the
roles of husband and wife, parent and child, learn how to deal with various stresses, frustrations
and where a person first experiences violence as well. The socio-cultural perspectives also
examine the cultural systems which influence every aspect of society.
The idea that abuses victims are dependent on their abusers is the foundation of dependency
relations theory (which is not true in some situations). Abuse of children, seniors, and spouses
has been demonstrated to involve dependency (Finkelhor, 1994). Because kids are typically
smaller and weaker than adults and unable to leave an abusive family or dangerous neighborhood
or support themselves, children remain reliant on their abusers. Elderly people can become
fragile, ill, dependent, and challenging to care for, which puts stress on their careers and makes
them dependent on their abusers. (Pillemer, 1993; Finkelhor, 1994). Even some well-intentioned
caregivers, who are mostly relatives, may lose control under pressure and abuse their elderly
relatives (Pillemer, 1993). A risk factor for abuse is that some older individuals, like children,
may rely on family members for basic care (Steinmetz SK, 2005). Economic dependence may be
a factor in marital abuse that explains why many women continue to live in abusive marriages
(Wallace H, 2002). Because they may not have enough money to maintain themselves or their
children if they leave the violent relationship, mistreated wives may have little or no income of
their own (Wallace, 2002).
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Immigrant women who may be terrified of being alone in a foreign country or who may worry
that divorcing their abusers will embarrass their families may experience dependency to a greater
extent (Dasgupta SD, 1998; Chapter 10). No single explanation in and of itself is likely sufficient
to explain this phenomenon, even if this chapter has given an overview of numerous hypotheses
that are supposed to assist explain the development, existence, and maintenance of violence.
Aggression can be influenced by complex acts, complex thought processes, individual
psychologies, and relationships between people and systems.
Eigen (1996) defines emotional violence as the abuser's intentional infliction of psychological
and emotional agony via humiliation or threat, including verbal or non-verbal behaviour to the
victim. These psychological and emotional abuses put down a household member as the abuser
wants to have total control over what the victim can or cannot do, withholding information from
them and limiting their acquaintances (Saltzman et al., 2002).
The abuser will physically assault a household member. It is in this context that severe harm,
injury, disability and occasionally death may follow. Studies reveal that Narok County men have
often caused indelible physical scars to the victims and others have been burned parts of their
body for maintaining their power in the family. Conversely, Vuningoma (2003) noted that, some
women are more violent than their abusers as 'they even happen to cut their husbands sex off.
Women also are involved in domestic violence. Some cultures condone that parents apply force
to women for correction, but the opposite is not allowed. However, nowadays families are
witnessing women committing abuse to their parents in the home. A survey conducted by
Vuningoma (2003) in South Kivu showed that almost 2% of the parents admitted to have
suffered violence caused by their own sons. They pushed and beat their parents, burned the
10
house with the parents inside it and attacked parents with machetes, spears or knives in an
attempt to wound or kill them (Longa and Bulonza, 2006).
This is another form of abuse that the abuser applies by forcing another person, adult or child of
different or same sex, to be involved in a sexual act without consent (Olson and DeFrain,
2000).1n many countries, one of the root causes of sexual violence is the subordinate status of
women and girls. ltano (2009) considers discrimination and unequal power relations in families
as exposing women greatly to sexual abuse.
Domestic violence can also take the form of economic violence. Parker and Tritter (2006) reveal
that when the abuser is the only money provider in the home, he has more power over household
members. In fact, family economic resources give power to the one who brings them. In most
cases, man is the one who brings more financial, social and organizational resources. In the same
vein, Ruhamya (2007) ascertains that abusers apply economic violence by denying the victim
physical resources such as clothes, food, necessary medication or shelter. In addition, Wallby
and Allen (2006) relate that the man may refuse to pay the lease, seize his wife's bank cards and
even deny her to use some of the appliances in the house. Such inequality of power creates
potential negative consequences for the victim's economic security or being refused financial
assistance, which reduces her voice to claim her home rights (Olson and DeFrain, 2000).
Ongala (1993) points that some Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) pastors often compel
their wives with their women to adhere to their churches. This does not only apply to close but
also remote family members with the aim of growing the number of church adherents.
Furthermore, with spiritual domestic violence the abuser impedes some family members to
practice fully their religious beliefs or manipulates them to his profit (Holmes, 2003). The abuser
hinders the victims of spiritual abuse from fully practicing their religious or spiritual faiths,
11
which hinders their rights and ridicules them toward their women and their church fellows
(lmbens and lneke, 1993). The abuser may go further and oblige the victim to quit their religious
practices and join his religion. The abuser does not use violence blindly; he always advances
good reasons for it.
2.4.1 Psychological
Social stress theories focus on personality traits and mental characteristics of the offender.
Personality traits include sudden bursts of anger, poor impulse control, and poor self-esteem.
Various theories suggest that psychopathology and other personality disorders are factors, and
that abuse experienced as a child leads some people to be more violent as adults. Correlation has
been found between juvenile delinquency and domestic violence in adulthood. Studies have
found high incidence of psychopathy among abusers, (Graham, 2003).
2.4.2 Jealousy.
Many cases of domestic violence occur due to jealousy when the spouse was either suspected of
being unfaithful or was planning to leave the relationship. An evolutionary psychology
explanation such cases of domestic violence are that they represent to male attempts to control
female reproduction and ensure sexual exclusivity for himself through violence or the threat of
violence.
2.4.3 Behavioral
Behavioral theories draw on the work of behavior analysts. Applied behavior analysis uses the
basic principles of learning theory to change behavior. Behavioral theories of domestic violence
focus on the use of functional assessment with the goal of reducing episodes of violence to zero
rates. This program leads to behavior therapy. Often by identifying the antecedents and
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consequences of violent action, the abusers can be taught self-control. Recently more focus has
been placed on prevention and a behavioral prevention theory, (Leone,2004).
Psychiatric disorders are sometimes associated with domestic violence, such as borderline
personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, drug abuse,
and alcoholism. It was estimated that at least one-third of all abusers have some type of mental
illness, (Denis, 2004).
The effects of domestic violence damage the family and the society. Mahajan (1990) claims that
the damages of domestic abuse are high and heavy as 'society may pay costly medical care,
mental health services, criminal justice intervention, witnesses huge business losses and its
security is endangered. According to Ongala (1993) say that domestic abusers also threaten the
security of the whole society and pa11icularly that of their neighborhood. Wilondja (2008)
affirms that 'the noise of the victim at night and repeated fight in the home disturb everyone and
social environment.
The victims of domestic violence develop different health related problems. Physical and mental
complications may accompany abuse. Bahige (1994) states that women victims of domestic
abuse suffer grave physical wounds which sometimes cause trauma and therefore impede
13
medical care effectiveness. Mukwege and Mays (2009) mention among others arthritis, diabetes,
heart diseases and hypertension that are often detected among older female victims. Stark (1986)
supports that such complications worsen the victims' lives as the perpetrator cannot allow or
assist the victim to get medications or appropriate medical care. In Narok County, recent reports
show that women and girls suffer physical injuries like broken bones, head wounds, pelvic pain,
abdominal and gastrointestinal complaints due to domestic battering (UNIFEM, 2007). If the
woman experiences violence while pregnant, she may not gain much weight, run the risk of pre-
term delivery or miscarriage, birth of infant with low weight and injury to or death of the foetus
(WHO, 2005).
Apart from the impact on physical health, previous researchers also reported that female
survivors of domestic violence were also affected in terms of mental health such as depression,
fear, anxiety, low self-esteem, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder
(Kapoor, 2000; Leonardsson & San Sebastian, 2017; Pickover et al., 2017). These effects are
known as long-term effects that are more severe and affect the victim, their children and the
close family members. The verbal abuse, executed either through excessive intonation,
threatening statements and/or vulgar remarks could easily induce psychological trauma (Golu,
2014; Kapoor, 2000; Lancet, 2016). Such behaviour indicates the lack of respect and inability to
manage anger and stressful state of mind. The effect is manifested in emotional distress leading
to sadness, feeling inferior and loss of motivation.
As most world societies are patriarchal, this causes some women not to easily gain economic
means. In fact, women rely on men who are the only owners of economic assets and besides,
girls and women cannot inherit from their fathers once they are deceased (Russell 1996). In
accordance to studies carried out in Narok County, almost 50% of the women abused in their
homes lose their jobs because of direct and repeated assault by the husband. Actually, Gelles
(1997) states that women victims of domestic abuse may move several times away from the
abuser; but if she were employed, this hampers on her job's stability. Therefore, the victim
becomes more destitute, which worsens her situation and that of her women (Strauss and Gelles,
1986:79).
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2.6 The prevention measures towards Domestic Violence.
Marriage totally changes the lives of two adults. It requires dying to selfishness. It equally
requires real communication. Absence of communication in a marriage can easily lead to
domestic violence. A few pairs merely discuss chores and projects. Maintaining an open line of
communication would maintain the frankness in the relationship and prevent concealed
perceptions that could lead to domestic violence.
Professional marriage counselors are able to help marriage partners with problems to get back on
the right track. There's no harm in seeking assistance. Keep in mind that domestic violence has
its penalties, which include tremendous monetary losses. Even more significantly, it taints
marriage and completely finishes relationships. Married people really needs guidance and
counseling to enable them be aware of the demands and challenges of married life, this may help
them cope with the future problems in marriage. Outside influence, married couples should be
conscious when choosing friends to socialize with; this will help him/her limit those whose
wrong advice may wreck the marriage. The couples should maintain a level of privacy and avoid
telling friends the family/marriage problems (DeBord, 1996).
Measures put in place by government officers to protect girls and women from gender-based
violence and educating the community on the health effects of harmful cultural practices,
sensitization through public Barraza’s, encouraging girl child education, interpreting the laws
that are made to protect girls and women, arresting the culprits and enforcing the law.
Rescue canters Narok offer safe houses to girls who otherwise would be affected by Gender
Based Violence (GBV). The presence of GBV monitors in Narok Counties have made a
difference and have increased awareness about the problem, enhancing the willingness of the
community to report GBV cases.
15
2.7 Conceptual Framework.
Independent variables. Dependent variable.
Communication in Marriage
Look for assistance/counseling
Creating awareness
Establishing Gender-based Violence Rescue Institutions.
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CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
This chapter viewed the methods and tools that are to be used in gathering the required
information for this study they will include: Sample size, Methods of collecting data, Data
source, Research Design and Data analysis.
The study will be both qualitative and quantitative. The quantitative data are to be obtained using
structured questionnaires from different categories of people such as police, parents and local
leaders and other respondents, while the qualitative data are to be obtained from key informants,
interviews and observations. Qualitative approach is to be considered because it tries to draw
conclusions in terms of concepts and analysis in terms of understanding, what, where, who
17
among other queries, while the quantitative research approach is to be opted for in cases where
data needs to be tabulated or represented in graphs or pie charts for easier comprehension.
Under this technique, consultation of individuals will be done so as to get information that will
be needed. Interviewing some people will be done so as to get the accurate and expected
information, For example, friends and families of victims of domestic violence.
The Quotas Method under sampling is be used; this will be selected because it helps the
researcher to focus on certain characteristics. A quota will be helpful because it enables the
18
researcher to know the public opinion about domestic violence. Under Quotas, selection from
important sources of heterogeneity will be redone in a way of choosing out the people trusted
and capable of giving out the information without any bias for example, the investigative
reporters and the members of the audience will be considered when interviewing.
It was the last technique that will be used for selecting a sample to study secretive behavior. This
will involve carrying out the interviews and decisions on whom to include in the sample based
on the knowledge of the researcher about the subject and in the sample, people of both sexes that
will be male and female will be included.
Personal interviewing will be used because it enables the researcher to get satisfactory results,
during the interview process; the main aim will make sure that the questions are understood and
answered in a full and in a uniform manner. It will be mainly done about the current and
historical events.
3.5.2 Observation
Through observations, developing questions will be done and it enables the researcher to get
answers. Personal observation enables the researchers to get a deep understanding of the
implication of domestic violence on women as well as interacting with different people who
interpret what will not be understood.
The researcher will use a historical approach to give a perspective from the past to understand
present issues, problems, and plans of action to questions which help to alleviate dissatisfaction
19
situations. This will be accomplished through reviewing original documents, library work,
Internet surfing and audio programs. It will be mainly done through the comparison of the
existing data.
3. 6 Data sources
Primary data to be used will include data from interviews that will face to face contact, count the
respondents who were to give the researcher the information regarding the role of the media in
highlighting domestic violence, primary data would also be obtained from questionnaires and
observations.
These will be collected from relevant literature like brochures, leaflets, documentaries,
newspaper articles and transcribed interviews and monthly reports of Ministry of Gender and
Social Development among other secondary sources that should be available to the researcher.
20
frequencies, the use of bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs etc. this involved depicting and
analyzing quantitative data to be presented.
Data that are to be collected from the key informants using an interview schedule and self-
administered questionnaires are to act as a quality check. Thereafter, the researcher will proceed
to administer the instrument to the respective respondents in the area of study.
Since domestic violence is a sensitive issue in the study area, it might be hard to get people who
are willing to disclose what they know about the problem
Securing appointment say interviews will be rather hard because some respondents like police
and Community leaders might be busy on their work duties which might mean calling back; the
researcher thus, will look for alternative respondents and also become more aggressive in that
regard.
21
Respondents are not willing to avail the researcher with the required information due to negative
attitudes, suspiciousness and speculations. In this case the researcher will highlight the
importance of the study and also create awareness with the help of top-level management staff.
Communication inefficiency as a result of language barrier will be a major obstacle for most
respondents to read and interpret the questions. The researcher therefore, where necessary a
research assistant who understands vernacular will be employed for this task.
The time allocated for conducting the research will not be enough for the researcher to cover the
area of study since she has other academic obligations. The researcher therefore, will prioritize
her schedule according to deadlines to utilize the given time effectively and efficiently.
CHAPTER FOUR
The respondents were asked their age and it was represented in the table below
22
Table 1: Age distribution of the respondents
The distribution of responders among the various age categories is seen in Table 1 above. The
respondents in this survey range in age from 18 and older. According to the table, the age groups
with the highest percentage of respondents are those between the ages of 25 and 34 (35%),
followed by those between the ages of 18 and 24, and those above the age of 55 (5%).
40
35
35
30
25
25 22.5
20
15 12.5
10
5
5
0
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55 and above
The respondents were asked about their marital status and the results were put in a table below.
23
Table 2 showing the marital status of the study respondents.
According to the data above, of the 200 female study participants, 60% were married and 25%
were unmarried. Those who were widowed (5%), separated (7.5%), or divorced (2.5%) made up
a smaller portion of the sample. It is important to note that the respondents' marital status is a
crucial demographic factor to take into account while researching the consequences of domestic
violence on women. For instance, divorced or separated women may have different experiences
and needs when it comes to accessing assistance and resources, whereas married women may be
more likely than single women to experience domestic abuse.
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Single Married Widowed Separated Divorced
24
Figure 2 shows marital status of respondents
The respondents were asked about their level of education and the results were tabulated in a
table below.
The number of respondents in each category of educational attainment is displayed in the table
above, together with the percentage of the entire sample that each category represents. According
to this data, the majority of female respondents (47.5%) had only completed their primary school
whereas a sizable portion (26.5%) had finished their secondary education. A significant number
(17.5%) had no formal education, whereas a lesser percentage (8.5%) had finished tertiary
education.
While analyzing the effects of domestic violence on women in Narok County, it is crucial to take
their level of education into account. Education can help a woman become more empowered and
better able to change her situation, as well as help her recognize domestic violence and seek
assistance. It would be intriguing to investigate whether there is a relationship between education
level and the frequency of domestic abuse among the female respondents, as well as whether
those with higher education levels are more inclined to access resources and seek treatment with
the problem. This might offer insightful information on how to help and empower women in this
25
situation more effectively.
50 47.5
45
40
35
30
26.5
25
20 17.5
15
10 8.5
0
No formal education Primary education Secondary education Tertiary education
The respondents were asked about their Occupation and the results were shown in the table
below.
26
Other 26 13.0%
Total 200 100%
Source: Primary data
The study's 200 female respondents listed a variety of vocations in the table above, along with
the frequency (number of respondents) and percentage of respondents in each category.
Students make up the largest occupational category, with 45 responses, or 22.5% of the sample.
Farmers, with 32 respondents (16.0%), are the second-largest category, followed by
businesswomen, with 28 respondents (14.0%). 12.5% of the sample is made up of teachers, and
11.0% is made up of housewives. Less than 10% of the sample, or 6.0% and 5.0% of
respondents, respectively, are nurses and government employees. 13.0% of those surveyed still
listed other occupations.
The distribution of occupations among the female survey respondents is summarized in the
frequency table below. It can be useful to understand the distribution of jobs when evaluating
study findings since various vocations may be linked to varying degrees of exposure to domestic
abuse or coping mechanisms for dealing with it. The large proportion of students in the sample,
for instance, might indicate that young women in Narok County are especially susceptible to
domestic violence or that educational institutions are crucial places for intervention and
assistance.
Other 13
Government worker 5
Nurse 6
Housewife 11
Teacher 12.5
Business Woman 14
Farmer 16
Student 22.5
0 5 10 15 20 25
27
Source: Primary data
The impacts of domestic violence are listed in the table above along with how frequently or how
often they were cited by the respondents. There are 200 responders in all. Physical injuries,
which were noted by 30 (15%) of the 200 respondents, were the most often reported
consequence of domestic violence. This indicates that physical violence is a prevalent issue in
Narok County, and that it can seriously hurt women.
With 40 (20%) responses, psychological trauma was the second most often mentioned result of
domestic abuse. This shows that domestic abuse can have long-lasting emotional and mental
effects in addition to physical ones.
28
A woman's feeling of self-worth and confidence can be damaged by domestic abuse, as indicated
by the 20 (10%) respondents who reported having low self-esteem. 10 (5%) respondents
indicated having suicidal thoughts, indicating that domestic abuse can be so severe that it can
cause women to think about taking their own lives.
10 (5 %) respondents acknowledged abusing drugs or alcohol, which suggests that some women
in Narok County, may do so as a coping technique for the trauma they have encountered. 20
(10%) respondents indicated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suggesting that many
women may still be dealing with the psychological effects of domestic violence.
Overall, the frequency table indicates that domestic violence has significant and pervasive
consequences on women in Narok County, and that more needs to be done to address this issue
and provide support for those who have been victims.
15 20 30
10
40
20
29
Figure 5 below shows various effects of domestic violence on women.
The researcher has listed the many types of domestic violence that were evaluated in the study
along with how frequently and frequently each type of abuse was reported by the 200 female
respondents in the table above.
The figures in the table, which represent the percentage of the 200 respondents who reported
experiencing each type of violence, should be understood as such. The prevalence of various
types of domestic violence in Narok County, Kenya, is summarized in the table below. This
information can assist researchers and policymakers in comprehending the size and nature of the
issue in this area.
30
22
43.5
Physical abuse
13 Emotional/psychological
abuse
Sexual abuse
Economic abuse
Stalking
56
In the table above, the causes of domestic violence are listed in the first column, and the
frequencies or number of times each cause was mentioned by the respondents are listed in the
second column.
200 female respondents in Narok County, Kenya, who were questioned about the reasons why
they had experienced domestic violence provided the data. The most frequent reasons for
domestic violence listed by respondents are displayed in the frequency table. The chart shows
behavior of the respondent which was cited as a cause of domestic violence by 65 (32.5%) out
of 200 respondents, was the most often reported factor. In Narok County, Kenya, this implies
that behavior of respondents may be a significant contributing factor to domestic violence.
31
Psychological problems were cited as a cause of domestic violence by 45 (22.5%) out of 200
respondents, making it the second most common factor. This shows that local psychological
problems can also be a factor in domestic violence. Additional factors cited by respondents as
contributing to domestic violence include jealousy 30 (15.0 %) , mental illness 60 (30.0 %) ,
Overall, this frequency data table sheds light on the factors that contribute to domestic violence
in Narok County, Kenya. It also emphasizes the need for interventions that deal with issues like
drug addiction and financial strain.
10
20
Alcohol and Substance Abuse
65 Financial Issues
25 Jealousy and Possessiveness
Infidelity
Mental Illness
Cultural Beliefs and Practices
30 Power Imbalance
45
CHAPTER FIVE
32
5.2 Key Observations according to study objectives.
The first objective of this study was to find out the causes of domestic violence in Narok County.
The major causes of domestic violence according to the study include psychological problems in
the family which include sudden bursts of anger, poor impulse control, and poor self-esteem,
jealousy, behavioral and mental illness which are sometimes associated with domestic violence,
such as borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, bipolar disorder,
schizophrenia, drug abuse, and alcoholism.
The second objective was to document the forms of domestic violence in Narok County. In this
regard, the study noted that there are many forms of domestic violence. The most common form
of domestic violence against women domestic physical violence which entails severe harm,
injury, disability and in some cases death of the victims. Followed by domestic emotional
violence which involves humiliation or abuse of the victims. The other forms of domestic
violence against women are domestic sexual abuse which involves sexual act without consent
and domestic economic violence which illustrates that that abusers apply economic violence by
denying the victim physical resources such as clothes, food, necessary medication or shelter.
Finally, the last form of domestic violence against women is domestic spiritual violence which
involves the abuser impedes some family members to practice fully their religious beliefs or
manipulates them to his profit. Though the women were aware of domestic violence occurrence,
the awareness did not translate into actions aimed at addressing it. Women are aware of domestic
violence and its adverse effects, yet they opt to suffer in silence.
The third objective of was to identify the effects of domestic violence on women in Narok
County. In this regard, there was evidence that there are adverse effects of domestic violence that
are experienced immediately and in the long run. Indeed, most of the domestic violence
experiences were life changing and totally altered the lives of the victim. Such adverse effects of
domestic violence against women of may lead to negative outcomes for women and may affect
their well-being, safety, and stability in the long- run. The first effect of domestic violence is
social effect. According to Mahajan, domestic violence weighs heavy on the society since the
society caters fort medical care, criminal justice intervention in the long-run. It’s also supported
by Ongala who states that increased domestic violence in the society may lead to insecurity in
the society. Domestic violence can be a nuisance to the society at large.
33
From the study it is noted the victims of domestic violence are affected physically and
psychologically. Physical abuse may cause trauma to the victims. In Narok County, cases have
been reported involving women who suffer physical injuries like broken bones, wounds, pelvic
pain etc. due to uncontrolled domestic violence against them. In some cases, if the victims are
pregnant, they may miscarry. The aftermath of such experience may cause mental health illness
such as depression, obsessive – compulsive disorder, and post – traumatic stress disorder. These
conditions may in the long run may affect the families of the victims especially children.
Another common effect of domestic violence is economic effect. Majority of the women who
experience domestic violence are unable to cater for themselves. Majority of the women depend
on men to provide for them. Also, the society do not support inheritance of family property by
women. Abuser of women also do not support economic development of their victims.
The form objectives state how the government and community of Narok County have establishes
possible measures towards domestic violence on women in Narok County. Measure such as
educating married couples on the effectives and frequent communication has assisted in
reduction of domestic violence cases.
Also, affordable marriage counsellors have been put in place to assist in domestic violence cases.
Professional marriage counselors have been noted to help marriage partners with problems to
avoid domestic violence. It’s also noted that married couples should avoid seeking advice from
friends. This may escalate the problems in a marriage. Instead, they should seek professional
assistance.
Since most victims of domestic violence are unaware of its adverse effects, measures have been
put in place to educate them on the effect of domestic violence. Also, the government encourages
the society to educate the girls despite their culture and norms. Rules and regulations have also
been put in place to protect women and girls experiencing or who may experience domestic
violence.
Finally, the government has established domestic violence victims rescue institution. This is
helpful since domestic violence victims are mostly scared to speak out. Some societies’ cultures
and norms support domestic violence hence victims are afraid to speak out. The presence of such
institutions monitors domestic violence cases in Narok County have made a difference and have
34
increased awareness about the problem, enhancing the willingness of the community to report
domestic violence cases.
5.3 Conclusion.
The study showed that domestic violence against women has various negative effects on their
physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. It also revealed that domestic violence was
widespread in Narok County, and many women were suffering from violence from their intimate
partners. The study concludes that domestic violence is a serious issue that requires urgent
attention to protect the rights of women and ensure their safety.
5.4 Recommendations.
Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations are made:
1. Increase public awareness of domestic violence against women in Narok County through
community education programs.
2. Increase the number of shelters and safe houses for women who are victims of domestic
violence in Narok County.
3. Strengthen laws and policies to protect women from domestic violence in Narok County.
4. Train law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders on how
to identify and respond to domestic violence against women.
5. Provide counseling and support services for women who have experienced domestic
violence in Narok County.
By implementing these recommendations, Narok County can create a safe environment for
women and protect their rights to live free from violence.
Further studies should be conducted in other counties and other parts of the country to assess the
effect of domestic violence on women and girls as this would enable a cross country comparison
35
and observation of the trends in sexual violence. Further studies could also be conducted on one
of the aspects of women lives such as health or economical aspect to bring out the clearer picture
of the adverse effects of domestic violence.
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40
APPENDICES
APPENDIX I: INTRODUCTION LETTER
DATE…………………………
I GLADYS KARIA a student of Maasai Mara University pursuing Diploma in Social Work. I
am carrying out research on the "Effects of Domestic violence on women using a case study of
Narok County". This research is purely academic and you are kindly requested to answer the
questions below." in order to fulfil the criteria. Your help is sought, and taking a few minutes to
respond to the questions in the questionnaire that is attached will help determine the effects of
domestic violence on women in Narok County. The information you supply will be handled in
Thank you.
GLADYS KARIA.
i
Appendix II: Questionnaire for Respondents
Part A: Introduction and Background
You are a sample participant in this survey, and its purpose is to gather data on the effect of
domestic violence Narok county, Kenya: Fill in the blanks or mark the appropriate boxes with
(√) to express your response. The provided information will be kept private and used exclusively
for this study's objectives.
2. Age:
i. 18-24 years
ii. 25-34 years
iii. 35-44 years
iv. 45-54 years
3. Marital Status:
i. Single
ii. Married
iii. Widowed
iv. Separated
v. Divorced
4. Education Level:
i. No formal education
ii. Primary education
iii. Secondary education
iv. Tertiary education
ii
5. Occupation:
i. Student
ii. Farmer
iii. Businesswoman
iv. Teacher
v. Housewife
vi. Nurse
vii. Government worker
viii. Other
Please indicate how much you agree or disagree with the following statements.
iii
Part D: Forms of Domestic Violence.
Please indicate how much you agree or disagree with the following statements.
Please indicate how much you agree or disagree with the following statements.
iv