Romika

A PROJECT
ON
Gender-based domestic violence: causes and effects:
2023-2024
Submitted In Partial Fulfillment of the Required

Credits for the degree of
Masters of law
Supervised by: submitted by:

Prof. (dr).beena dewan romika bharti
(Jv-P/23/7268)
FACULTY OF LAW AND GOVERNANCE
JAYOTI VIDYAPEETH WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY, JAIPUR
[1]
CERITIFICATE
The Report is hereby approved as a bonafide and creditable Dissertation
work on “Gender-based domestic violence: causes and effects”
carried out and presented by Romika Bharti (Jv-P/23/7268) in a manner to
warrant its acceptance in partial fulfillment of the required credits for the
degree of LLM.
However, the undersigned do not necessarily endorse or take responsibility

for any statement or opinion expressed or conclusion drawn there in, but
only approve the report for the purpose for which it is submitted.
(………………….) (Prof. Dr. BEENA DEWAN)
Supervisor (EXTERNAL) Supervisor

(EXTERNAL)
Organization
JAYOTI VIDYAPEETH WOMEN’S
UNIVERSITY
[2]
Declaration
“I hereby declare that this submission is my own work and that, to the best of my
knowledge and belief, it contains no material previously published or written by any
other person nor material which have been accepted for the ward of any other degree or
diploma of any university or institution of higher learning, except where due
acknowledgement has been made in the text. I have routed all original documents and
name of the authors whose work has helped me in writing this report have been placed
at appropriate places and I have not infringed copyrights of other authors”.
Place: JAIPUR ROMIKA BHARTI
Date: (JV-P/23/7268)
[3]
EPIGRAPH
.. You don't have to wait for someone to treat you bad

repeatedly. All it takes is once, and if they get away with it
that once, if they know they can treat you like that, then it
sets the pattern for the future.
-Jane Green
[4]
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who made the completion of
this project possible, starting with the Lord Almighty.
I also extend my gratitude to our Faculty of Law and Governance and Prof. DR.
BEENA DEWAN, who gave me the opportunity to make this project”. I would like to
thank her for his constant support and motivation throughout the making of this project.
I would further like to thank the library staff, other staff members of our university and
my parent’s for their much needed assistance without which the completion of this
project would not have been possible.
[5]
CONTENT
List of Tables 8
Acronyms and Abbreviations 9
CHAPTER-1: INTRODUCTION 10-20

General Background
Statement of Problem
Objectives of the Study
Significance of the Study
Organization of the Study
CHAPTER -2: LITERATURE REVIEW 21-28

Global Overview of Domestic Violence
Violence Against Women in Nepalese Context
CHAPTER –3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 29-32

Research Design
Nature and Sources of Data
Sampling Procedure
Data Collection Techniques
Primary Sources of Data
Secondary Sources of Data
Data Analysis
Limitations of the Study
[6]
CHAPTER -4: INTRODUCTION OF STUDY AREA AND RESPONDENTS'

PROFILE 33-68
Study Area
Socio Economic Status of Women
Age Composition of Respondents
Composition of Respondents by Caste/ ethnicity
Composition of Respondents by Religion
Marital status of the respondents
Literacy Status of the Respondents
Comparison by Family Type and Monthly Income
Occupation Status of the respondents and their economic status
Domestic Violence against Women
Types of Domestic Violence Based on Age Group
Tools Used by the Perpetrators during Physical Activities
Persons Responsible for Victimization
Causes of Domestic Violence based on Age Groups
Consequences of Domestic Violence based on Age Groups
Causes of Domestic Violence based on Caste/Ethnicity
Consequences of Domestic Violence based on Caste and Ethnicity
Cause of Domestic violence based on Education
Consequences of domestic violence based on Education
Causes of Domestic Violence based on Occupation
Consequences of Domestic Violence based on Occupation.
Frequency of Violence
Forms of Social Violence Encountered
CHAPTER-5: SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 69-73

Summary
Conclusion
REFERENCES 74-83
[7]
List of Table
Table 1: Distribution of respondents by age group 35
Table 2: Distribution of respondents by caste / ethnicity 36
Table 3: Distribution of respondents by Religion 37
Table 4: Distribution of respondents by marital status 38
Table 5: Distribution of respondents according to their literacy status 39
Table 6: Distribution of respondents by family types and monthly Income 40
Table 7: Distribution of respondents by occupation 42
Table 8: Distribution of Types of Domestic Violence based on Age Group 44
Table 9: Distribution of tools used by perpetrators during physical violence 45
Table 10: Distribution of Perpetrators of Violence 47
Table 11: Distribution of Causes of Domestic Violence based on Age 49
Table 12: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic violence based on Age 50
Table 13: Distribution of causes of domestic violence based on Caste/Ethnicity 52

Table 14: Distribution of Consequences of domestic violence based on Caste 54
Table 15: Distribution of causes of Domestic violence based on Education Level 56
Table 16: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic Violence based on Education 58
Table 17: Distribution of Causes Domestic Violence based on occupation. 60
Table 18: Distribution of consequences of domestic violence based on occupation 62
Table 19: Distribution of frequency of occurring DV 64
Table 20: Distribution of forms of Violence Encountered 66
[8]
Acronyms and abbreviations

CEDAW : Convention to Elimination All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women
CREHPA : Centre for Research on Environment, Health and

Population Activities
CWLAC : Central Women Legal Aid Committee
DV : Domestic Violence
DVAW : Domestic Violence Against Women
FWDR : Far Western Development Region
GBV : Gender Based Violence
ICPD : International Conference on Population and Declaration
INGO : International Non Governmental Organization
IPV : Intimate Partner Violence
LACC : Legal Aid and Consultant Center
NACVAW: National Advisory Council on Violence Against Women
NGO : Non Governmental Organization Advisory Council

OVW : Office on Violence Against Women
SLC : School Leaving Certificate
UN : United Nations
UNFPA : United Nations Fund for Population Activities
UNICEF : United Nations International Children‟s Emergency Fund
VAW : Violence Against Women
VDC : Village Development committee
WHE : Women Health Exchange
WHO : World Health Organization
[9]
CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
General Background
Domestic violence, defined as any act of physical, sexual, or psychological abuse

against a woman by someone who is closely related to her through marriage, a
family relationship, or a friendship, is pervasive and stems from the sociocultural
structure of the community. Males are frequently identified as the abusers of
domestic violence and their sexual partners as the victims. According to Heise et
al. (1999), one in three women worldwide have experienced abuse, coercion into
having sex, or beatings at the hands of a family member. From the Vedic era to
the twenty-first century, women in India may not have ever enjoyed the same
level of freedom and equality as males when it comes to the home front.
The idea of "Ardhangini," or "half of the body," appears to be limited to literature

and has never been used in real life. Furthermore, excerpts from Tulsidas'
Ramcharitamanas, such as "Dhol, Gauwnaar, Shudra, Pashu aur Nari; Sakal
Tadan ka Adhikari" (which translate to "drums, uncivilized illiterates, lower
castes, animals, and women are all fit to be beaten"), in addition to other
indicators specific to women, such as the Pardaha system (covering one's face
with a veil) and the Sati system (a woman immerses herself in her husband's
pyre), reflect the historical subordination of women. To put it briefly, women are
viewed as the lesser sex, forced to walk a tightrope, and exposed to inequity.
From the beginning of her existence until the end, her father, spouse, or son must
be in charge of her. The subjugation of women in conjunction with patriarchal and
masculine sociocultural norms may play a significant role in the prevalence of
domestic violence.Given how commonplace domestic violence is, numerous
researchers have already tried to evaluate the issue in addition to investigating
potential causes and the ensuing effects on women and society at large. According
to INCLEN (2000), it is a problem that exists in India regardless of social status,
age, education level, or religion.
[10]
According to the same study, 40% of women reported having been the victim of
physical abuse at least once while they were married. According to Murthy et al.
(2004), factors other than menstrual issues that significantly impact domestic
violence include the number of family members, the style of marriage, and the
husband's educational background. Although numerous studies have found that
men's lifestyle choices, such as drug use, alcoholism, and smoking, encourage
men to commit domestic violence (Leonard, 1992; McKenry et al., 1995; Rao,
1997 and Bhatt, 1998), some argue that there is a strong correlation between
masculinity and domestic violence (Duvvury and Nayak, 2003 and Hamberger et
al., 1997).
Once more, it is discovered that those who have less responsibility and
socialization are the ones who exacerbate the issue (Barnett and Hamberger,
1992). Research has also shown that men reared in patriarchal families that
support traditional gender roles (Fagot et al., 1998; Malamuth et al., 1995) and
sons of violent parents (Straus et al., 1980; Martin et al., 2002) are more prone to
abuse their intimate partners. Domestic violence is primarily caused by the
process of gendered socialization (Sahu, 2003). According to a different study
conducted by Gerstein (2000) among men in Uttar Pradesh, poverty and a lack of
education are major contributing factors to domestic violence. In addition, women
who marry early are more susceptible to domestic abuse (Mishra, 2000; Hindin,
2002 and Rao, 1997).
In addition, it is impossible to overlook the importance of an individual's caste,
religion, autonomy, employment status, property ownership, dowry, and
interspousal connection (Sahu, 2003; Swain, 2002 and Jejeebhoy, 1998).
Numerous research support the hypothesis that women's sexual and reproductive
health is most likely compromised when they experience abuse from an intimate
partner.
[11]
In addition to having a major negative influence on mental health, this

widespread violence has major negative implications such as unintended
pregnancy (Khan et al., 1996), gynecological diseases (Golding and Taylor,
1996), and physical damage to private parts (Starck et al., 1979). (UNICEF,
2000). Once more, it is discovered that many of the diseases and issues that are
frequently linked to them are not sufficiently treated (Mitra, 1999; Visaria, 1999;
Dave and Solanki, 2000 and Jaswal, 2000).
Furthermore, as Freedman has stated, husbands abusing their wives should not be
interpreted as a collapse of the social order, but rather as validation of the
patriarchal social structure (Travers, 1997). In a same vein, Jejeebhoy (1998)
believes that husband beating is not just a deeply ingrained practice, but that
people also defend it. Domestic violence, then, has its roots in the cultural norms
of the family and society and is not a personal aberration. Taking a different
perspective, it is discovered that many victims of domestic abuse have either
denied knowing who attacked them or have given other explanations for their
injuries (Daga et al., 1999).
It is essential to have a thorough understanding of women's attitudes and

perceptions on the issue in order to design effective intervention programs and
policies. The majority of earlier research were on a limited scale and only
provided a regional view, which may not accurately represent the entire nation.
Given the conversation above, it would appear crucial to comprehend the
perspective of women in addition to the evaluation of the issue and its national
ramifications. Furthermore, it is worthwhile to look into domestic violence in the
world's largest democracy for the benefit of half of its residents, particularly in the
modern world when gender equality and justice have become trendy terms.
The goal of this work is to investigate if Indian women who have been married
for a long time and are of reproductive age believe that hitting their wives is
acceptable in specific circumstances.
[12]
Examining the frequency of beatings or other physical abuse since the age of 15
and during the past year is also important, both geographically and in terms of
background traits. The goals of the current paper are as follows in particular:
1. To investigate the regional differences in women's perceptions of wife
beating as justifiable for particular circumstances.
2. To investigate the disparities in women's perceptions of wife beating as
warranted by particular background traits.
3. To comprehend the regional differences in the frequency of beatings or
physical abuse since the age of 15, the individual who inflicted the beating or
abuse, and the frequency of such incidents in the year (12 months) leading up
to the survey.
4. To investigate the frequency of physical abuse or beatings by specific
background variables both since the age of fifteen and in the past year.
5. To look at the factors that influence women's perceptions of wife beating as
acceptable as well as the factors that influence the frequency of beatings and
other physical abuse since the age of 15 and within the last year.
"Domestic violence" is defined as any act of physical, psychological, or sexual

abuse of any kind, by any member of the family against any woman in the family
—from simple to complex assaults to kidnapping, threats, intimidation, coercion,
stalking, humiliating verbal abuse, forcible or unlawful entry, arson, property
destruction, sexual violence, marital rape, violence related to dowries or bride
prices, female genital mutilation, violence against household workers, and
attempts to commit such acts" (Shwami, 1996:39).
One of the crimes against women that is connected to their social disadvantage is
domestic violence. Violence against women, particularly in married homes, is
referred to as domestic violence. Domestic violence is therefore acknowledged as
one of the major obstacles to women's empowerment, with implications for
women's health, behavior related to obtaining health care, and acceptance of the
small family norm.
[13]
Nonetheless, an effort has been made to investigate whether married Indian

women in the reproductive age range believe that beating their wives is
acceptable. Furthermore, the dependent variables include the frequency of
beatings and physical abuse since the age of 15 as well as within the last year.
The analysis makes use of data from the National Family Health Survey II,
conducted in 1998–1999 and encompassing 90,303 married women. Domestic
violence has been linked to a number of background factors, including education,
age, length of marriage, place of residence, caste, religion, sex of the head of the
household, standard of living, employment status of women, exposure to the
media, and women's autonomy over decision-making, freedom of movement, and
financial access. To determine how women's autonomy and domestic violence are
related, an autonomy index is calculated. The variance of domestic violence by
background characteristics is examined using bivariate analysis. Using the chosen
independent variables, logistic regression is used to forecast domestic violence.
Based on the data, it may be inferred that women from lower socioeconomic
backgrounds are more likely to support each of the many justifications for wife-
beating. Once more, women with lesser levels of autonomy and socioeconomic
position are more likely to experience domestic violence.
The UN declaration defines physical violence as beatings, stabbings, burnings,
and deliberate starvation. Strict seclusion, ongoing denigration, and public
humiliation are examples of psychological violence. The intentional denial of
financial resources, the seizure of women's earnings, and the deprivation of
women of their own homes or property are examples of economic forms of
violence against women.
[14]
Coerced sex, forced pregnancy, and sexual harassment are examples of sexual
abuse. In the home and in the community, women are more likely to experience
sexual abuse or exploitation as children, adolescents, or adults (WHO, 2005). A
universal scourge that endangers everyone's life, health, and happiness is
violence. Threats, pressure, and the willful deprivation of resources are examples
of violence against women that is typically committed by a male partner.(World
Report on Violence and Health, 2002).
Gender discrimination is a major factor contributing to domestic violence (DV),

or violence within the family. The abuse of women by current or previous male
intimate partners is referred to as "domestic violence" in various regions of the
world (Johnson and Sacco V. 1995; Fischbach and Herbert B. 1997).
"One out of every five women in world is physically or sexually abused by a man
at some point in her life (UNICEF, 2001)."
Women who experience violence suffer severe psychological effects, in addition

to physical trauma. These effects also extend to the victims' relatives. Violence
against women affects not just their neighborhoods but the entire country. Similar
to this, gender-based violence hinders women's progress toward socioeconomic
development and female empowerment by negatively affecting their capacity for
achievement (SAATHI, 2001).
Given that the primary emphasis of the study is violence against women (VAW),
the researcher will look for data on this topic. Every nation has VAW, which
transcends national boundaries in terms of age, ethnicity, culture, class, education,
and income. According to Ahuja Ram (1998), "no woman has never experienced
violence, exploitation, harassment, or humiliation that shadows her sex at some
point in her life." A woman's life is characterized by peril at one end and pleasure
at the other.
[15]
Similarly, the second reason for domestic violence in Hinduism is the attraction
towards sons. "Parents can get heaven from Sons as our society is tied up by such
traditional values and norms," the Hindu religion claims. It acknowledges sons as
belonging to their own generations solely. It appears that a woman has
experienced domestic abuse. Technology advancements have made it simple to
determine a child's gender before birth, and abortion has become more common
among educated as well as illiterate individuals (Acharya, 2001).
According to Persson and Wall S. (2003), women are more likely to be killed or
subjected to physical abuse by a familiar person, most frequently a family
member or intimate partner or in personal affairs (UN, 1993).
Any act of gender-based violence against women, whether committed in public or

privately, that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily, sexual, or psychological injury
or suffering to women is considered violence against women. This includes
threats of such acts, coercion, or arbitrarily depriving women of their freedom. It
has been noted that pregnant women frequently experience increased
susceptibility to abuse by their male partners(UN, 1993).
Given its extensive effects on women's physical and mental health as well as
their general relative gender position, it is arguably the most significant
component of the set of violence against women (Heise et al., 2002; Koenig et al.,
2003). Women are more likely to experience violence because of their inferior
status and lack of authority in the home. (Njovana and Watts, 1996).
According to widely known international data on violence, "violence occurs in
two thirds of marriages and there is a rape in the United States every six minutes."
Eighty percent of women in Santiago, Chile, say they have experienced domestic
violence. According to Kannabiran (1999), one in four Canadian women can
anticipate experiencing sexual assault at some point in their lives.
[16]
The current levels of poverty and the prevalence of religion among women and
children in South Asia greatly influence women's access to and control over
household and community resources, women's mobility, both physically (moving
from place to place) and socially (gaining access to better housing or work),
women's access to information and decision-making on reproductive health, and
women's right to education. (Kannabiran, 1999).
The main focus of violence against women in Pakistan is restricting their ability
to work in public, wear certain clothes, go outside the house, and other activities.
"91% of stay-at-home moms and 77% of working women experience physical
abuse from their spouses. According to Kannabiran (1999), two thirds of women
in Korea experience regular beatings from their spouses.
VAW, a type of social isolation, is becoming acknowledged on a global scale as a

significant concern. It is a global issue that transcends social, religious, cultural,
and economic divides (Naved, 2003). Victims typically want to remain silent, and
the offender typically gets away with it. Therefore, there is a good chance that
women will experience violence, whether it be domestic or gender-based
violence, unless a support system is established.
Problem Description
Violence against women and girls has historically existed in Nepal and is a
pervasive issue in the country, but it is still rarely reported. Due to the small
number of studies conducted on the topic, data on the matter is scarce. It has only
been in the last ten years that open discussion and action against violence against
women have begun. Women were viewed through a very different lens in the
1960s and 1970s, when they were primarily focused on bearing children and
providing healthcare, but their vital roles have gradually come to light.
Historically, there have been several different types of violence against women in
Nepal.
[17]
People still believe that women and girls should not have the right to freedom. In
Nepal, the ideal method of socialization is for a girl to be under the supervision of
her parents or brothers until the day of her marriage. Following marriage, she
becomes her husband's property, and as a result, he believes he should have the
authority to make decisions regarding her life (Bennett, 2002). If she lives after
her husband passes away, her sons or daughters must take care of her. According
to Cameron (1995), her father, husband, and kid are portrayed as the decision-
makers and the masters of her life.
Women experience subordination, humiliation, and exclusion from social
activities. Even if there are many violent crimes, they are mostly suppressed for a
variety of reasons. It started out as a common and familial occurrence and is still a
family matter (Kelkar, 1985).
According to feminist researchers, women's religious violence also includes
fasting and worshiping for their husbands' well-being, longevity, and good fortune
(Archarya, 2010). Child infanticide, forced abortions, dowries, burning alive of
women, and child marriage in communities are other severe forms of violence
against women (Kelkar, 1985). Similarly, discrimination against sons and
daughters in the context of the home, school, decision-making, and involvement
in community activities also includes social violence.
There are also many cases of intimate partner violence that is sexual,
psychological, or emotional in nature. According to estimates, one in three
women will experience domestic violence of some kind at some point in their
lives (Bloom, 2008). Every community in the world has some degree of DV,
which impacts women at all stages of life from coerced suicide and assault to sex-
selective abortion of female fetuses (Kaur and Garg, 2008). Due to its impact on
women's engagement in development projects, it also impedes socioeconomic
development (Barkat and Majid, 2003).
It is hard to determine whether women are reporting violence against them more
frequently or whether they are suffering violence in some nations at a higher rate
than in others without thorough, meticulously recorded study on the subject.
[18]
It is challenging to compare and evaluate the extent of violence and the efficacy
of initiatives to stop it in the absence of adequate research. Women who
experience domestic violence not only have a lower socioeconomic level, but also
worse health. On the one hand, it has a lasting psychological impact on the kids,
and on the other, it impedes their growth.Therefore, it is imperative to remove
these development-blocking factors as soon as feasible.But it is unquestionable
until the underlying cause is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to
determine the answers to the following queries:
1. What are the many types of domestic violence that typically take place?
2. What distinct behaviors are connected to domestic violence against women?
Goals for the Research
Any study that lacks a clear goal is not worthwhile. In addition, the goals must to
be quantifiable and researchable. With these considerations in mind, the study's
precise goal was established as follows:
1. Investigating the origins and manifestations of domestic violence against

women
2. To examine the effects that domestic abuse has on women
Importance of the Research

The purpose of this research is to raise awareness of the DVAW crisis and assist
students majoring in related fields in creating a project that is comparable to this
one. Information from the study could be helpful for project managers,
administrators, policy planners, and implementers.
[19]
Even the understanding of how women are denied freedom will be the focus of
this study. Additionally, an effort has been made to comprehend each person's
perspective on their circumstances. It will also demonstrate that women are
victims of same-sex relationships in addition to males. Somehow, running
community-based initiatives for women's development will be beneficial as well.
Structure of the Research
There are five chapters in the study. The study's overall backdrop, including the
problem, the goals, the significance, and the way it was organized, is covered in
Chapter One. The Literature Review is included in Chapter 2. Research
Methodology, which covers the instruments used in the study's research, is
covered in Chapter 3. The Study Area and Respondents' Profile is the title of
Chapter 4. Similarly, the Summary and Conclusion are finally covered in Chapter
Five.
[20]
CHAPTER 2
Literature review
Global Overview of Domestic Violence
Globally, DVAW is become a significant issue. "A woman is not truly free if she
has to live under constant threat of violence." -Kofi Annan, the Secretary General
of the United Nations.
According to Essentials of Sociology and the Clinical Manual of Prevention in

Mental Health, women experience domestic abuse more frequently and more
seriously than males.
One in five women worldwide are predicted to experience rape or attempted rape
at some point in their lives. A person who is there will have experienced abuse,
including beatings and forced sex, typically at the hands of family members or
acquaintances (E.L Heise, M Ellsberg, M Gottemoeller, 1995).
According to UNICEF (2001), one in five women worldwide have experienced

physical or sexual abuse at the hands of a man at some point in their lives.
According to statistics from 2004, Indigenous women in Australia may be victims

of domestic abuse at a rate 40 times higher than that of non-Indigenous women.
Compared to men, women are more likely to be murdered by a close companion.
Approximately 75% of people slain by an intimate partner are women, while 25%
are men. In 1999, 1,218 women and 424 men in the US lost their lives at the
hands of their intimate partners; in 2005, that number rose to 1181 women and
329 men. In France in 2008, an intimate partner killed 156 women and 27 men.
About 100 women in England and Wales are murdered annually by their partners
or ex-partners, compared to 21 men who were killed in 2010.
[21]
According to Archer's meta-analysis, 65% of domestic violence injuries in the US

occur to women. According to a Canadian study, 6% of men and 7% of women
reported having been abused by their current or past partners. However, women
who suffered from spousal violence were twice as likely to sustain injuries, three
times more likely to feel afraid for their lives, twice as likely to be stalked, and
twice as likely to experience more than ten violent incidents.
Working against the pervasiveness of domestic violence in Kashmir has united

activists from the Hindu and Muslim communities. Furthermore, it has been said
that some elements of Islamic law encourage domestic violence. According to a
research, half of Palestinian women have experienced domestic abuse. In rural
Egypt, eighty percent of the women surveyed said that beatings were common
and frequently justifiable, especially when the lady refused to have sex with her
husband. According to research by Human Rights Watch, up to 90% of Pakistani
women experience abuse of some kind in their own homes. 97% of Indian
women, according to unofficial estimates, have been victims of violence at some
point in their life. In some villages in Lagos State, Nigeria, up to two thirds of the
women report being victims of domestic abuse. 42% of Turkish women over the
age of 15 report having experienced sexual or physical abuse.
Numerous international research show that domestic violence is a significant

problem. In her report, Tamang (2010) states that "A review of over 50
population based studies performed in 35 countries prior to 1999 indicated that
between 10% to 52% of women around the world report that they have been
physically abused and between 10% and 30% reported that they have experienced
sexual violence by an intimidate partner at some point in their lives". In
Colombia, 21% of partnered women in a nationally representative sample
reported experiencing physical violence at some point in their lives (Profamilia,
1995); in Nicaragua, 52% of women reported experiencing abuse from their
partners at some point in their lives, with 27% reporting it in the year prior
(Ellsberg et al, 1999).
According to El-Zanaty et al. (1995), a third of the women in the Middle East's
1995 DHS in Egypt said they had been beaten since getting married.
[22]
Twenty percent of the husbands in an urban Thailand survey admitted to having

physically abused their wives at some point (Hoffman, Demo and Edwards,
1994).
According to a research done in 1994 by Haj-Yahia and Edleson, thirty percent of

married Arab women living in Israel had experienced physical abuse or sexual
coercion at least once.
Numerous research conducted in South Asian nations, including India, have

emphasized the significance of socioeconomic determinants; in general, it has
been established that the likelihood of domestic violence is inversely connected to
greater socioeconomic position and/or caste (Bhasin, 2000 and Kelkar, 1985).
Men are typically viewed as the providers in these communities since they
manage the family's relations with the outside world and work outside the home.
Many women lack a separate source of income, autonomous assets or finances,
and a socially acceptable identity apart from their families. At least not
immediately, increasing women's access to resources and economic possibilities
does not automatically reduce their vulnerability to domestic abuse. The degree of
violence against women varies greatly throughout villages, and higher levels of
income-generating activity among women are occasionally linked to higher levels
of violence (Tamang, 2010).
According to UNICEF (1996), South Asian cultural practices have historically

positioned women at the bottom of the social hierarchy. Daughters are typically
viewed as inferior in a family, too. Women also receive inadequate treatment
throughout pregnancy; instead, they are forced to perform physically demanding
labor, which is hazardous to their health. Violence against women takes many
various forms and intensity throughout the world. Women who experience
violence suffer severe psychological effects in addition to physical trauma.
Therefore, study on the experience, prevalence, causes, and effects of violence
against women must continue in both developed and developing nations.
[23]
According to a National Survey on violence against women in Canada, one-third

of all women reported having experienced physical abuse at the hands of their
partners. It is also claimed that the availability of guns and cultural factors
influence the weaponry employed by offenders. While weapons are used in India,
beatings and fire deaths are more common than gun-related murders of women,
according to the UN. Then, according to the crime's perpetrators, she passed away
in a kitchen accident (WHO, 2000).
In 1990/1999, a National Survey performed by women's help organizations in

Malaysia involved in-depth interviews with sixty women 1. According to the
survey, out of 60 women, 92% had experienced punching, kicks, or slaps; 22%
had attempted strangling; and 10% had been threatened or stabbed with a knife. In
addition, 68% of respondents said they had been beaten while pregnant, and 50%
said they had been subjected to physical coercion during sex (UNIFM, 2001).
Domestic abuse is widespread around the world. According to a 2002 World

Report, women are the victims of husband-beaten women in 70% of incidents in
Peru that are reported to the police. 50% of married women in a Bangkok slum
reported receiving regular beatings, according to a survey. Four battered women
in the US die every day, and a woman is beaten every 15 seconds. Over 1.5
million women seek medical attention annually for injuries sustained as a result of
domestic abuse. According to 40% of Chilean women, their experiences with
violence escalated when they became pregnant.
Gender-based violence is against women's rights, as evidenced by the violence

against women and girls in South East Asia (Hayward & Finney, 2000). The most
prevalent type of domestic abuse in South Asia, the world's most gender-sensitive
region with 79 million missing women, was also noted. One of the highest rates of
gender-based violence in the world is seen in South East Asia. This is a result of
the unequal power dynamics between the sexes as well as the general inferior
position of women and girls. According to the report, more than 5,000 women in
India lose their lives each year as a result of their in-laws thinking their dowry
was insufficient.
[24]
According to a health profile on women in South East Asia (H&F, 2000),

numerous evidence-based studies conducted in various nations on domestic abuse
are included. For example, 270 cases of abuse-related deaths in Bangladesh were
documented in news papers between 1982 and 1985. Of the women, 29% had
been killed by beatings, 39% by severe physical torture, and 185 had been
attacked with sharp objects. According to another study conducted in
Maharashtra, India, dowries (homicides by the husband or his family members)
were the cause of death in 120 cases involving women. 88% of the ladies were
under 25 and extremely young. Of the ladies, 34% had drowned and 46% had
died from bums. Of the 120 homicide cases, 86% involved husbands as the
primary accused.
Violence Against Women in Nepalese Context
The word "violence" typically connotes bad things. Violence literally means to
treat or possess harshly. Its acerbic connotation means to detest, dominate, and
more severely, to murder. Mahara, 2006). Domestic abuse is dangerous and
harmful. It destroys lives, splits families apart, and has a long-lasting effect.
DVAW has deep historical, social, and religious roots in Nepal. Nepalese women
are not an exception. Their own people have mistreated, tortured, and subjugated
them, choking, beating, and suppressing them. In Nepal, the prevalence of gender-
based violence is very high. According to several studies conducted in Nepal, 66
percent of women have experienced verbal abuse, 33 percent have experienced
emotional abuse, and 77 percent of those who have perpetrated the violence were
family members (UNICEF 2001).
The so called home is not safe for them. Women play secondary role in the
society. They are treated as inferior objects. According to Bhattachan, “Nepalese
women do not have right on one‟s own body. They have no right on their
reproductive health. They have no right to decide when to become pregnant, how
many times to become pregnant and whether or not to do so abortion. Decision
about such critical matters is usually done by men and women have to follow
them faithfully.”
[25]
According to Ahuja Ram (1998), "no woman has never experienced violence,
exploitation, harassment, or humiliation that shadows her sex at some point in her
life." A woman's life is characterized by peril at one end and pleasure at the
other.These kinds of mistreatment also affect women in Nepal. Two more
common forms of violence against women in Nepal are physical abuse and
domestic abuse. According to a 2000 study conducted by the non-governmental
group SAATHI, 66% of women in the nation experience verbal abuse, 33%
experience emotional abuse, and 77% of those who inflict such harm on their
victims are family members. 58% of women who experienced domestic abuse
attested to regular abuse. A situation analysis of VAW in Nepal carried out by
SAATHI in 1997 found that 64% reported polygamy, 82% were beaten, 30%
were raped, and 93% were subjected to mental and emotional abuse. The results
of the study showed that, of the 60 respondents, 40 experienced various health
issues as a result of domestic abuse. Thirty percent of them suffered from long-
term ailments such as chronic pain syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome.
Twenty-five percent had mental health issues. Twenty percent of women had
issues related to their reproductive health. Inflammatory illness of the pelvis was
the prevalent reproductive issue. 15% suffered health issues as a result of being
severely beaten. Physical health issues such as back pain, visual problems, and
poor subjective health were prevalent.
Many women stated that being coerced into having sex with their partners caused
them to suffer from psychological damage. Speaking on the research, Dr. Mahesh
Puri, associate director of CREHPA, stated that "a few even reported attempting
to commit suicide after sexual violence" (The Kathmandu Post, June 11, 2008).
According to reports, women who refuse to have sex with their husbands
frequently face severe types of physical and psychological violence, including
being thrown down stairs, severely beaten, kicked, and punched. Similarly, a few
women also stated that they have been unjustly accused of adultery, have received
threats of abandonment, have been disregarded, and have been subjected to verbal
and emotional abuse and extortion (The Kathmandu Post, June 11, 2008).
[26]
The numerous evidence-based studies of various nations about domestic abuse are
mentioned in a health profile on women in South East Asia published in 2000.
The Family Health (1998) study on maternal mortality found that women in the
reproductive age group had a higher suicide rate. According to a different data
from Nepal, the leading cause of death for women annually is maternal mortality,
which is followed by suicide. In 2003–2004, Nepal police received reports of
around 500 suicide cases (Asia foundation, 2004).Research has indicated that a
significant number of women in Nepal suffer from depression as a result of
polygamy, with half a million women living in polygamous marriages (DFID)
according to the census (SAATHI 2001). The types of violence that women
experience vary depending on factors such as educational attainment, socio-
cultural shifts, and others. For instance, dowry-death was uncommon in the past
but is now common in the Terai, the plain area of Nepal next to India, suggesting
the influence of Indian culture. Similarly, in Nepal's Far Western Development
Region, women are customarily kept in an unclean, shed-like room without a
window or ventilation for a minimum of four to seven days throughout their
menstrual cycle. This practice is known as Chhaupadi. Similar to this, the Central
Women Legal Aid Committee (CWLAC) documented 251 cases of domestic
abuse, 9 rape cases, 3 trafficking cases, 1 abortion case, and 14 other cases in
2003. The CWLAC helpline also provided legal advice to 386 victim women.
In addition, numerous pieces about domestic violence against women are reported
in the daily news paper. Domestic violence is mostly attributed to problems with
infertility, alcoholism, suspicious husband behavior, and other dowry-related
concerns. There are less reports of violence against women in Nepal. Due to the
social pressure placed on them to keep such crimes hidden, relatively few women
have the bravery to take their cases to court. This is because of the humiliation
and guilt felt by the victims' families as well as the inadequate response by the
police. Still, certain study publications are accessible (Singh, 1996).
[27]
A comprehensive assessment of the literature revealed that there aren't many

studies on DV or DVAW that have been done in Nepal. According to a WHO
research from 2007, nearly half of Nepal's married women said they had ever
been the victim of sexual assault. When comparing the amount of women who
reported ever suffering sexual violence, the Tharu community did so at a higher
rate than the Brahmin/Chhetri community. Sexual assault can take many
different forms, from forced sex to unwelcome physical contact. The
respondents believed that the main underlying reasons of sexual assault were
women's economic dependency on men, alcohol usage, conventional cultural
norms, lack of family and legal assistance, and double standards in gender roles.
Complex factors contribute to sexual violence (WHO, 2009). The study did find,
however, that social and individual variables most likely contribute to the
continuation of this kind of violence. Data from other South Asian nations
supported this conclusion (Santhya and Jejeebhoy, 2005). More over half of the
1,296 young married women (ages 15 to 24) who participated in a cross-sectional
survey in 2009 reported having experienced violence at some point in their lives
(51.9%). Nearly half (46.2%) reported sexual violence, and one-fourth (25.3%)
reported physical violence. Similarly, 35.8% of women stated that they had been
victims of violence at some point in the previous year. Married women are far
more likely to experience violence if there is little or no communication between
spouses and if they have low levels of autonomy (Lamichhane et al., 2011).
[28]
CHAPTER-3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The current state of DVAW will be investigated in this research study. The study
will also discuss the effects of this kind of violence on women. Thus, both
descriptive and exploratory research will be employed.
Design of Research
A combination of exploratory and descriptive research designs is used to achieve

the study's goal. Descriptive research is carried out to characterize the
circumstances of DVAW and to evaluate the beliefs, actions, or traits of the
respondents. Stated differently, the purpose of this research is to gather data for
the study. In a similar vein, exploratory research is conducted to learn more about
the state of domestic violence and to obtain fresh perspectives on it.
Types and Origins of Information
To achieve the study's goal, primary and secondary sources are incorporated into
this investigation.
I. Principal Data Source: For the investigation, primary data are primarily
needed. Through interviews, data were gathered from the field. For this reason, a
schedule of interviews including socio-educational, economic, and occupational
variables was created. In addition, the representative of the focused group and
other nearby women were approached to obtain the additional information
required in addition to these basic data.
II. Secondary Data: Previous theses, books, journals, electronic media, and
related publications and articles were employed as secondary sources of material
to help build the study's overall concept.
[29]
Procedure for Sampling
The sampling technique is the foundation for obtaining the study's intended data.
One of Sindhupalchowk District's 79 Village Development Committees (VDCs),
Pangretar was specifically chosen for the study. Since Pangretar 1 is a mixed-
class society with people from many castes and ethnic groups, it is possible to
investigate the various causes and effects of living among various resident groups.
The existence of Pangretar-1 Sindhupalchowk, a women's organization essentially
known as women for human rights, is another factor in the decision to choose
Pangretar VDC. The 85 members of the women's group are led by their president,
Rukmani Timalsina. Reaching the research goal from these subject areas would
be simple. Using a random selecting technique, 30 participants were chosen for
this study from a total of 85 participants based on the proportion of participants
from castes and ethnic groups.
Methods of Gathering Data
Given that the study was completed in part for a master's degree in sociology,
pertinent sociological and anthropological instruments were employed to gather
data.
Principal Data Sources
The following instruments were employed to collect primary data in order to

fulfill the study goals.
1. Interview Timetable
[30]
One of the best methods for gathering data in social research to address the related
issue is the interview. The semi-structured interview technique was one of the
various interview formats used to obtain data. A semi-structured questionnaire
was created for that purpose and given to the responder. Utilizing the interview
method, pertinent information on the respondents' economic activities, household
activities, and other activities was discovered. Thirty ladies from the group were
included in the research population.
2. Center Conversation
Focus group discussions were held with members of the WHR women's group,
including the president, six executive board members, and seven general members
who were present at the school compound, in order to collect qualitative data. The
meeting's primary topics of discussion were the origins, effects, and types of
domestic violence against women.
Secondary Data Sources
The secondary sources of data include various published or unpublished articles,

theses, books, case studies, journals, literature from non-governmental
organizations, etc., as well as electronic media.
Information Analysis
The majority of the research study is devoted to data analysis. The analysis
merely employs a descriptive analysis methodology. Using basic statistical tools,
data was tallied and evaluated for the quantitative data analysis approach.
Sentences containing personal experiences and feelings were used for qualitative
analysis. The outcome was derived from the data collected.
[31]
Study Restrictions
Every research project has its own set of constraints that dictate the study's goals,
duration, and budget. The study's participants were reticent and afraid to speak in
public. The women had a tremendous workload and were preoccupied with home
chores, leaving little time for the researcher. Meanwhile, the scholar was left to
handle everything by himself. As a result, the study is restricted to the
Sindhupalchok district's Pangretar VDC. Time proved to be a limitation as well
because it was not feasible to stay in the field for an extended period of time for
both business and personal reasons. Because it was an academic study, resources
were also scarce because the researcher had to handle everything.
Although there are many various types of violence that exist in society today, not
all of them are included in the study. The information gathered from many
sources is frequently subject to bias and whims, thus it is not always accurate.
Therefore, it is not possible to generalize the study's findings to the entire nation.
[32]
CHAPTER 4
INTRODUCTION OF STUDY AREA AND RESPONDENTS'

PROFILE
Study Area:
The proposed study was carried out among women residing in Pangretar-1 VDC
of Sindhupalchowk district. Pangretar is one of the least developed VDCs (out of
79) in Sindhupalchowk district, situated near the capital city Kathmandu. Given
its status as one of the least developed places, it is evident that the scholar will be
able to meet the study's objectives. Additionally, the district's proximity to the
capital ensures convenient commuting. Consequently, Pangretar was purposefully
chosen as the study area.
Pangretar is a mountainous area of 9.6 square kilometers, with a total population
of 2952 people, of which 1524 are female and 1428 are male (National Population
&Housing Census, 2011). Notably, Pangretar has roads leading to the nearby
highway, electricity, and a low female to male literacy rate. Although there are
people from different castes living there, the majority of the population is
Tamang, and they practice Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. The primary
industry in Pangretar is agriculture, followed by raising livestock. In other words,
the VDC is diverse.
[33]
Women's Socioeconomic Situation
This part provides a detailed analysis of the respondents' economies, socio-cultural

lives, and demographic characteristics of the study area. 30 women in the age range of
20 to 60 and over were chosen using the purposive sample technique. The variables that
have been used to categorize the respondents include caste/ethnicity, marital status,
literacy levels among the respondents, occupation, earning potential (income), and
family size.
[34]
Table 1: Distribution of respondents by age group
Age group No. of females Percentage

20-30 8 26.66
31-40 10 33.33
41-50 7 23.33
51-60 4 13.33
60 above 1 3.33
Total 30 100
Source: Field Survey, 2016
Table No. 1 shows that out of all responses, the majority are in the age range of
31 to 40, with women in the age group of 20 to 30 coming in second. In contrast,
the most active and productive age groups are those between 31 and 40.
Participation and group work involvement are strong in these groups. These
groups participate in open discussion programs and are more forthright. The
number of people in the over 51 to 60 age group is lower in the women's group
because they are unaware of its benefits. The economically most active and
potential age group is (40.4%), which is somewhat less than that of the study area,
according to the National Population Census of 2011. Similarly, the study area's
dependency rate is rather low when compared to the 8.2% national population
census from 2011.
Respondent composition according to caste and ethnicity
It was discovered that the ethnic makeup of Pangretar VDC ward no. 1 in the
Sindhupalchowk district was diverse. In the research region, several castes and
ethnic backgrounds were discovered.
[35]
Table 2: Distribution of respondents by caste / ethnicity
Caste/ Ethnicity Number Percentage

Brahmin 6 20
Chhetri 9 30
Tamang 11 36.67
Newar 3 10
B.K 1 3.33
Total 30 100.00
Table No. 2 above indicates that, in contrast to the national statistic, the
majority of respondents are Tamang (36.67%), followed by Chhetri (30%).
As per the 2011 census report, the majority population of Nepal is made up
of Chhetri (16.6%), Brahmin (12.2%), and several oppressed castes. The
study group had a greater proportion of Tamang.
Religion-Based Respondent Composition
An important factor in the analysis of domestic abuse against women is

religion. Religions such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism are listed
in the table below.
[36]
Table 3: Distribution of respondents by Religion
Religion Number Percentage

Hindu 18 63.33
Buddhists 8 26.66
Christians 4 13.33
Total 30 100.00
The majority of people in Nepal practice Hinduism, and survey data also
indicates that the majority of respondents are Hindus. There is a little
difference of 63.33 percent with the 2011 National Population Census (81.3).
The majority of Tamangs in the study area practice Buddhism, however
throughout the course of the research, Tamangs and members of the
Scheduled caste were persuaded to convert to Christianity. 13.33% of
research participants identify as Christian, which is higher than the 2011
National Population Census (1.4) proportion.
The respondents' marital status
In the survey, the respondents' marital status is also looked at and assessed.
A person's marital status describes their current state of being married,
divorced, separated, or widowed. The respondents' distribution based on
marital status is displayed in Table 4.
[37]
Table 4: Distribution of respondents by marital status
Marital status Number Percentage

Married 23 76.67
Divorced 1 3.33
Separated 2 6.66
Widow (single 4 13.33
women)
Total 30 100.00
According to the report, 76.67 percent of the respondents are now married.
Families were found to have a rigid hierarchy, with men making up roughly 80%
of the heads of household. The 2011 National Census of Nepal (75.95) indicates
that a majority of household heads are men in District of Sindhupalchowk. The
respondents who were divorced or separated claimed that there were numerous
societal factors that contributed to their circumstances. Because she was unable to
conceive and her spouse had married someone else in order to have a child, the
separated respondent suffered physically and psychologically at the hands of her
husband. Her husband's alcoholism was another reason for the separation. Her
spouse had a tendency of abusing her physically. In addition to separation from
one's spouse, divorce cases also exist. Early marriage, alcoholism, and the
husband's beating habit forced the woman to file for divorce since she was unable
to live with her husband and had to return to her mother's house, where she had to
endure the insults of her sister-in-laws.
[38]
Similar to this, women who became widows at a young age—between 30 and 40

—had to endure harsh remarks from society, particularly from other women, as a
result of traditional Nepalese culture. Since they caused their husbands' deaths,
they are held accountable. According to a survey, the majority of husbands from
Tamang backgrounds struggled with drinking alcohol and playing cards, which
led to financial waste.
Status of Respondents' Literacy
Literary status is a crucial factor in cases of spousal abuse. The respondents' level
of literacy is displayed in Table 5.
Table 5: Distribution of respondents according to their literacy status
Level of education Number Percentage

No education 13 43.3
Below 10 5 16.66
SLC Passed 5 16.66
Intermediate 2 6.7
Bachelor 1 3.3
Who can read only 4 13.33
Total 30 100

[39]
The distribution of respondents based on their level of literacy is displayed in

Table 5. According to the table, just 17 out of the 30 respondents are literate,
meaning they can read and write, whereas 43.3% cannot. As per the Central
Bureau of Statistics (CBS) report of 2011, out of 1,37,742 females in
Sindhupalchowk, 62,189 (45.14%) are illiterate, meaning they are unable to read
or write any word. Similarly, only 2.87 percent of women in the Sindhupalchowk
area are illiterate. Similar to the results of the 2011 Census, 43.3% of all
respondents in the study area were illiterate—that is, they could not read a word.
Comparison based on Monthly Income and Family Type
Income and family structure types are also important factors in domestic violence.
Large families often experience financial difficulties within the family, which can
lead to DVAW. The respondents' family composition type is displayed in Table 6.
Table 6: Distribution of respondents by family types and monthly Income
Types of Monthly Income of Women Total

Family
<5000 Nrs 5,000 - >10000
10000
Nuclear No 4 10 2 16
Family % 13.33 33.33 6.66 53.12
Joint No 8 5 1 14
Family % 26.66 16.66 3.33 46.65
Total No 12 15 3 30
% 39.33 49.99 9.99 100
[40]
The majority of respondents (53.12%) to the field survey have nuclear families. It
could be the result of arguments between in-laws and miscommunications among
family members. When a husband and wife live together and have minor
disagreements after drinking, they are more likely to use physical aggression. In a
similar vein, no other family member is typically able to stop their husband's
attacks during violent episodes. Recessive women are mentally abused by
dominant family members in joint and extended families due to differences in
viewpoints, disagreements, and other miscommunications. On the other hand, in-
laws hold wives accountable for their husbands' drug and alcohol abuse since they
are unable to manage their own marriage. Another type of violence is when a
daughter-in-law verbally abuses a mother-in-law who is a single woman. This has
happened to people over 50 who are dependent on their daughter-in-laws
financially.
The respondents' occupations and financial situation
Here, "occupation" refers to the kind of labor that individuals do in order to

support themselves. It also contributes to the prevalence of domestic violence.
Because they are more independent than women who do not engage in such
activities, women who work to generate revenue typically experience fewer
violations. The respondents' occupations are displayed in Table 7.
[41]
Table 7: Distribution of respondents by occupation
Occupation of Economic Status Total

respondents Insufficient Self Possible to
Sufficient save
Agriculture No 12 2 1 15
% 80 13.33 6.67 100
Housewives No 5 1 6
% 83.33 16.67 0 100
Daily wage No 1 3 1 5
labor % 20 60 20 100
Service No 2 2
(Care taker) % 0 100 100
Business No 0 1 1 2
% 0 50 50 100
Total as a No 18 9 3 30
whole % 60 30 10 100
[42]
According to the above data, 50% of respondents work in agriculture, which is a
comparable ratio to that of CBS in the study region. Agriculture is the backbone
of the economy, contributing one-third of GDP (Gross Domestic Product),
according to CBS (2011). Participants in the survey experience sexual harassment
at work. They experience this kind of harassment when there is construction.
Respondents in the research area who own businesses such as bars have also
experienced sexual harassment from male patrons following an alcohol
consumption. It was discovered that the responders who were not together were
employed as sweepers and provided care in schools. Housewives and respondents
who work in agriculture also engage in physical abuse, such as striking and
kicking, following alcohol consumption. Yet the majority of them were ignorant
that these constituted domestic abuse. The unemployed respondents must endure
derogatory remarks from legislators, occasional arguments, and psychological
abuse. We may conclude this by saying that just 10% of respondents were able to
save money on their own. Although half of the respondents worked in agriculture,
their financial situation was insufficient without professional farming.
Violence Against Women in the Home
Domestic violence against women that involves their husbands and other
household members is the subject of discussion. In addition, it addresses the
types, frequencies, and sharing of domestic violence as well as its causes.
Categories of Domestic Violence by Age
As is common knowledge in society, women experience various forms of

violence depending on their age group. Similar to Nepal, women are viewed as
second-class citizens in our society. The types of domestic abuse according to age
groups are presented in the table, which is based on a field study.
[43]
Table 8: Distribution of Types of Domestic Violence based on Age
Group
Age Group Types of Violence faced Total

Psychological Physical Economical Sexual
20-30 No 3 2 3 8
% 37.50 25 37.50 100
31-40 No 5 4 1 10
% 50 40 10 100
41-50 No 4 2 1 7
% 57.14 28.57 14.29 100
51-60 No 2 1 1 4
% 50 25 25 100
60 above No 1 1
% 100 100
Total (out No 15 9 4 2 30
of 30) % 50 30 13.33 6.66 100
Source: Field Survey 2016
[44]
Based on the age groupings of the respondents, Table No. 8 displays the various
forms of violence as well as the percentage of victims. Of those thirty
respondents, a maximum number of respondents experienced psychological
violations. It encompasses all forms of mental torment, verbal abuse,
abandonment or threats of abandonment, and intimidating and threatening acts. In
severe situations, ingesting alcohol also involves physical abuse. Merely 6% of
people experienced sexual harassment due to unwelcome advances.
Sexual abuse mostly happened at night while the husband was intoxicated and
between the ages of 41 and 60. The age range of 20 to 30 is associated with
economic abuse since this group is new to the home as daughter-in-laws and does
not provide enough money for their in-laws. In this sense, many forms of
domestic violence afflicted the respondents. In the 41–50 age range,
psychological violence is more common. The husband began abusing these age
groups after spending a lot of time with them in the family, even over minor legal
matters. He also had to work hard and take good care of the house.
Instruments Used by the Offenders During Physical Acts
The tools that were utilized by those who committed physical assaults are listed in
the table below.
[45]
Table 9: Distribution of tools used by perpetrators during physical
violence
Relation to Tools used by Perpetrators Total

Respondents
Hands Domestic Nearby
(physical Tools available tools
strength)
Husband No 3 1 4
% 75 25 100
Step Wife No 2 2
% 100 100
In Laws No 1 1 2
% 50 50 100
Other No 1 1
Relatives % 100 100
Total (out of No 6 2 1 9
30) % 66.66 22.22 11.11 100
Source: Field Survey 2016
Based on a survey, the majority of offenders in the research region used their
hands to commit violent crimes. There were multiple instances of using multiple
tools. It was discovered that the husband was the primary physical abuser.
Because of their husbands' interference and excessive alcohol consumption, wives
are physically abused. The age difference between the in-laws and their daughters
is another factor. Laws accuse daughters-in-law of not working hard enough, and
because of their arguments, husbands violently rule their wives, creating a society
that can be characterized as male patriarchal. Males are more likely than females
to use their hands to commit violent crimes and to employ readily available,
close-by instruments when breaking the law.
[46]
A husband's unbridled rage leads to him hitting his wives. When the husband and
stepwife argue, the husband typically resides with the stepwife and essentially
sides with her.
Individuals in Charge of Victimization
Women's freedom, mobility, and sexuality seem to be restricted by cultural

conventions and ideals. While women are becoming more aware of and educated
about their rights, tradition, culture, and religion are still cited as barriers to such
rights.
Women were being abused in this situation, not just by male members but also by
female members. Within the study location, the researcher discovered that the co-
wife, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, and spouse were
also accountable for the victimization.They instigate various forms of violence
within the home. However, the mother-in-law plays a significant effect in either
inciting or reducing violence.
Women seek independence for themselves, but many of them did not want to
grant freedom to other women since they had previously been subjected to abuse
and exploitation and wanted to uphold this custom for themselves.
Table 10: Distribution of Perpetrators of Violence
[47]
Relation Number Percentage
Husband 13 43.33
Step wife 2 6.67
In laws 11 36.67
Other relatives 4 13.33
Total 30 100.00
According to Table No. 13, spouses are the primary perpetrators of abuse and
violence, followed by in-laws, particularly mother-in-laws. When a daughter
becomes physically inactive and depends on other family members, it can also be
attributed to the mother-in-law's abuse. This is a particularly challenging situation
for single women. Studies indicate that men are primarily to blame for abuse and
violence. Because men are natural dictators, miscommunications inside the family
can lead to husbands physically abusing their spouses. Drinking and fighting at
home and in public are further contributing factors.
Age-specific causes of domestic violence
Without cause and effect, nothing could exist. For example, violence cannot occur
in the absence of any cause. Therefore, there should be some causes for the
incidence of violence. The following is a list of how respondents perceived
certain causes:
[48]
Table 11: Distribution of Causes of Domestic Violence based on Age
Age Group Causes of Domestic Violence

Illiteracy Male Husband being Polygamy No
Dominating alcoholic/ gambling/ Son
society drug abuse
20-30 No 2 6
31-40 No 2 3 5
41-50 No 6 5 2 1
51-60 No 7 3 1 1
60 No 1
above
Total No 15 5 20 3 2
Source: Field Survey, 2016 (Number exceed 30 respondents due to

multiple responses)
Drinking alcohol is the primary cause of domestic violence. Alcohol consumption

causes overstimulation of the body's operating mechanisms, which leads to
various abnormal behaviors including excessive talking and sexual harassment.
[49]
These behaviors ultimately result in domestic violence. The respondents' lack of
understanding of violence and acceptance of it as their fate is the second
significant illiteracy. Another reason why men tend to be considered superior in
society and make the majority of the decisions is because of the dominance of
men in it. Because of the cultural structure, sons are also necessary for rituals, and
their yearning for sons is also the source of violence.
It demonstrates that a variety of factors contribute to domestic violence. The

dominance of men in society is the foundation of all causes. Women are not as
accessible to all facets of social life inside the male-biased social structure.
Domestic Violence's Effects on Different Age Groups
Domestic abuse affects women either directly or indirectly. There are visible
impacts on the body, mind, social life, and emotions; however, certain
negative effects on the body and health were noted in the study.
Table 12: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic violence based on

Age
[50]
Age Group Consequences of Domestic Violence Total
Health Consequences Physical consequences

Depression Emotional Disorder Headache Decrease Body
distress Sleep in pain
working
efficiency
20-30 No 4 2 1 1 8
% 50 25 12.50 12.50 100
31-40 No 2 1 3 1 3 10
% 20 10 30 10 30 100
41-50 No 3 2 1 1 7
% 42.86 28.57 14.29 14.29 100
51-60 No 2 1 1 4
% 50 25 25 100
60 No 1 1
above
% 100 100
Total 7 5 9 3 4 2 30
(out % 23.33 16.66 30 10 13.33 6.66 100
of 30)
According to a field survey, there were physical and health effects. Seventy
percent of the participants experienced various health repercussions, including
elevated risk of depression, PTSD, sleep disturbances, and emotional discomfort,
particularly in women. Domestic violence was primarily caused by an alcoholic
husband. Filthy comments and arguments with in-laws cause mental torment, and
many of the respondents experienced sadness and had considered suicide at least
once in their lives.
[51]
The 41–50 year old age group experienced a severe case of depression. According
to the study, these groups are responsible for caring for the kids and the entire
house. They suffered from this kind of trauma in the absence of support from their
husband and family. Women who experienced physical abuse suffered negative
health effects that also affected their ability to work. Nearly 50% of women in the
20–30 age range experienced emotional disorders. These women's age group
demands complete affection and care from their family, especially from their
husbands. When their husbands abuse them or neglect them, they have negative
effects that worsen emotional disorders and disrupt their sleep.
Caste and ethnicity-based causes of domestic violence
One of the social factors of the respondents that significantly influences how
women behave is their caste and ethnicity. The respondent's caste and ethnic
makeup, as well as the factors that contribute to domestic violence, are
highlighted in the following table.
Table 13: Distribution of causes of domestic violence based on

Caste/Ethnicity
[52]
Caste/Ethnicity Causes of Domestic Violence Total

Dominating alcoholic/ Son
society gambling/ drug
abuse
Brahimin No 2 3 1 6
% 33.33 50 16,67 100
Chhetri No 2 1 4 2 9
% 22.22 11.11 44.44 22.22 100
Tamang No 3 7 1 11
% 27.27 63.64 9.09 100
Newar No 2 1 3
% 66.67 33.33 10
B.K No 1 1
% 100 100
Total No 7 4 14 3 2 30
(out of % 23.33 13.33 46.66 10 6.66 100
30)
Table No. 13 above demonstrates how the reasons of domestic violence vary
depending on caste and ethnicity. Alcohol consumption is widely allowed in
Tamang culture, as are scheduled casting. Alcohol tranquilizers and cultural
norms are major contributors to the high rate of violence in Tamang families.
On the other side, it is less in the Bhramin group because they were
obligated by culture to abstain from alcohol consumption.
[53]
According to this viewpoint, the reason for domestic violence is the
dominance of men in society, since everything needed to be done under their
control. It has been observed that their motivation for education surpasses
that of Tamang and reserved castes. Violence against women is common in
Chhetri castes as a result of drinking and gambling.
Women are treated as second-class citizens and are unaware of equality as a

result of illiteracy. We could come to the conclusion that the main causes of
violence, after illiteracy, are a husband's alcoholism and gambling addiction.
Domestic violence's effects according to caste and ethnicity
Nepal is a multilingual, multicultural country. Because each caste has a

different way of life, their causes are likewise different. The effects of
domestic abuse on women are displayed in the following table according to
caste and ethnicity.
Table 14: Distribution of Consequences of domestic violence based on Caste
[54]
Caste/Ethnicity Consequences of Domestic Violence Total

working
efficiency
Bhramin No 2 1 2 1 6
% 33.33 16.67 33.33 16.67 100
Chhetri No 2 4 2 1 9
% 22.22 44.44 22.22 11.11 100
Tamang No 2 2 3 3 1 11
% 18.18 18.18 27.27 27.27 9.09 100
Newar No 2 1 3
% 66.67 33.33 100
B.K No 1 1
% 100 100
Total No 7 5 9 3 4 2 30
(out of % 23.33 16.67 30 10 13.33 6.66 100
30)
According to Table No. 14, 30% of the women surveyed experienced physical
assault, and 70% experienced health problems as a result. Every caste and ethnic
group experienced domestic abuse differently, according to the poll. Table No. 13
indicates that there is a high rate of alcohol consumption among the Tamang
people, which contributes to a high rate of physical violence against women who
experience back or abdominal pain, which makes them less productive.
[55]
Psychological violence is another effect of violence. Emotional discomfort is

often caused by verbal abuse by a husband and frequent battering with in-laws.
Depression even led to thoughts of suicide in women. Women also struggle with
sleeping disorders as a result of trauma. According to the poll, Tamang people
experienced higher rates of physical violence than members of other castes or
ethnic groups. The Tamang family does not follow the same hierarchical structure
as Bhramin and Chhetri. Bhramin does not consume alcohol, unlike Scheduled
castes and Tamangs. Their gendered dominance and the inflexible cultural beliefs
of the hierarchical structure, which bind daughter-in-laws under diverse
conditions, are the fundamental causes of their violence.
Based on education, the causes of domestic violence
The way to shine light on the darkness is via education. The only way to achieve
awareness is through precise education. Based on education in the study region,
the causes of domestic violence are discussed in the table below.
Table 15: Distribution of causes of Domestic violence based on Education

Level
[56]
Education Causes of Domestic Violence Total

Dominating alcoholic/gambling/drug Son
society Abuse
No No 4 7 2 13
Education
% 30.77 53.85 15.38 100
Below 10 No 1 3 1 5
% 20 60 20 100
SLC passed No 2 1 2 5
%
Intermediate No 2 2
% 100 100
Bachelor No 1 1
% 100 100
Who can No 2 2 4
only read
% 50 50 100
Total (out No 7 4 14 3 2 30
of 30)
% 23.33 13.33 46.66 10 6.66 100
Table No. 15 demonstrates that wives of alcoholic and illiterate husbands are at a
higher risk of experiencing domestic abuse. Husbands of illiterate women were
discovered to be illiterate and to mostly work in daily wage labor and agriculture.
They also consume a lot of alcohol, which leads to miscommunication and violent
incidents with dominance attitudes.
[57]
Owing to male dominance in the home, even bachelorettes were discovered to be

victims of domestic abuse. Males are the heads of every household and are
especially productive in the study area. Because of cultural beliefs, women who
are unable to get their sons married to other women for the sake of their sons.
Because of the wide dissemination of knowledge and information, it is possible to
deduce that women with lower levels of education are more likely to experience
violence than women with higher levels of education. According to the report,
husbands' gambling and alcoholism contributed to a high rate of violence against
illiterate and only-literate women. These women's husbands, who are essentially
wage workers and farmers, were also found to be illiterate. Violence against
highly educated women is primarily caused by the domineering male personalities
in the family. They were compelled to deal with violence as they attempted to
protect.
Effects of domestic abuse according to education
Women who experience violence may experience physical, psychological, or

mental abuse in different ways. The following table elaborates on the implications
of domestic abuse based on schooling.
Table 16: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic Violence based on

Education
[58]
Education Consequences of Domestic Violence Total

Depressi Emotion Disord Headac Decreas Body
on al er he e in pain
distress Sleep working
efficienc
y
Illiteracy No 3 2 3 2 3 13
% 23.08 15.38 23.08 15.38 23.0 100
8
Below 10 No 1 3 1 5
grade
% 20 60 20 100
SLC No 2 1 1 1 5
% 40 20 20 20 100
Intermedi No 1 1 2
ate
% 50 50 100
Bachelors No 1 1
% 100 100
Who can No 1 1 2 4
read only
% 25 25 50 100
Total (Out No 7 5 9 3 4 2 30
of 30) % 23.33 16.67 30 10 13.33 6.66 100
[59]
According to Table 19, the majority of illiterate women experienced physical

abuse, were employed in agriculture, and had low incomes. They also don't know
where to report violent incidents. It was discovered that these women's husbands
also abused drugs and alcohol. These ladies are typically close to their husbands
and in-laws, therefore in the event of a minor miscommunication, the women are
compelled to put up with violence. Conversely, the majority of literate women
labor outside the home. When a woman works outside the home, her husband and
in-laws often abuse her mentally by accusing her of skipping work and taking on
extra work since they don't provide enough money at home. Higher educated
women experienced emotional distress as well as sleep disturbances from
arguments and close relationships. Women with up to an intermediate degree of
education experienced a higher rate of depression. While illiterate people consider
it to be somewhat normal that husbands are the head of the household and are
superior, educated women find it intolerable that their husbands dominate them
and become victims of them. Depression is not simply caused by dominance in
the household by the spouse.
Domestic violence causes according to occupation
The following lists the causes of domestic violence according to occupation.

Here, the underlying reasons of domestic violence each field of study are
examined.
Table 17: Distribution of Causes Domestic Violence based on

occupation.
[60]
Occupation Causes of Domestic Violence Tota

l
Illitera Male Husband being Polyga No
cy Dominati alcoholic/gambling/d m y Son
n r
g society ug abuse
Agricultu No 3 9 2 1 15
r % 20 60 13.33 6.67 100
e
Housewif No 3 2 1 6
e % 50 33.33 16.6 100
7
Daily No 1 4 5
wage % 20 80 100
labor
Service No 1 1 2
% 50 50 100
Business No 1 1 2
% 50 50 100
Total No 7 4 14 3 2 30
(out % 23.33 13.33 46.66 10 6.66 100
of 30)
The table outlines the four distinct vocational backgrounds and causes of
domestic violence, each of which required a different level of specialty to be
addressed. According to the information above, women with a background in
agriculture are more likely to experience violence than women in other
occupations. Due to their husbands' alcohol consumption habits and arguments
with their in-laws, the majority of women who work in agriculture experience
domestic violence.
[61]
However, this also suggests that the likelihood of violence is somewhat lower in
other occupations where the victims must travel to and from distant family
members. When it comes to housewives, the primary cause of violence is
illiteracy. They believe that if they had more education, they would be able to find
a position where they could make money. They cannot survive without the
assistance of others.
Because they were regularly involved in family disputes, which are the main
cause of violence, they only focused on housekeeping and light agricultural work
when they were unemployed.
Domestic violence's effects according to occupation.
Under various circumstances, women are impacted either directly or indirectly.

This study reports on a few effects of domestic abuse according to occupation.
Table 18: Distribution of consequences of domestic violence based on

occupation
[62]
Occupation Consequences of Domestic Violence Total

working
efficiency
Agriculture No 2 3 5 1 4 15
% 13.33 20 33.33 6.67 26.67 100
Housewife No 3 3 6
% 50 50 100
Wage No 1 3 1 5
Labor
% 20 60 20 100
Service No 1 1 2
% 50 50 100
Business No 1 1 2
% 50 50 100
Total (Out No 7 5 9 3 4 2 30
of 30) % 23.33 16.67 30 10 13.33 6.66 100
Fifty percent of the respondents work in agriculture. Respondents who relied on

agriculture reported experiencing both physical and psychological assault.
[63]
Women were hurt by their inebriated husband's use of household items and
physical power. Women experienced sleep disorders and physical pain. Women
who work in service are less likely to experience violations than those who work
in the field. The service holders are busy and away from their homes during the
day. They don't often use physical force, but there has been evidence of increased
mental torture. Due to their inability to work from home during the day, in-laws
and other family members have started battling with women who don't complete
their homework and instead focus on their own. Compared to other women, those
who work for pay have lower rates of depression. The reason for this is because
they are more depressed than people who work in fields and manage their own
businesses since they are occupied with work throughout the day.Therefore,
violence against women exists in all societies, albeit in various ways.
Violence Frequency
The study discovered that because women are not reporting the violence,
ignorance of women has fostered violence against them. The majority of the time,
mental tension in the perpetrators as well as the distaste of parents for their
daughter-in-law, drunken husbands, and gamblers for their wives are the causes of
violent behaviors. The frequency of the violent behaviors is shown in the
following table.
Table 19: Distribution of frequency of occurring DV
[64]
Frequency of Number Percentage
Occurrence
Daily 8 26.6
Weekly 5 16.7
Monthly 6 20
Occasionally 11 36.7
Total 30 100.00
The above table reveals that 36.7% of respondents, or the majority, report
occasional violations. These kinds of infractions arise from miscommunication
between in-laws and daughter-in-laws, where the son asserts his dominance over
the bride. According to the report, spouses who work in agriculture experience
daily violations because they live close by and have high alcohol use rates. The
women who are abused on a daily basis are weak both physically and mentally.
Compared to literate women, illiterate women are more devoted to their husbands
and families.
Types of Social Violence Visible
There is always violence on the home front, whether it be minor or major.

However, family is always the source of violence. Violence can be sexual,
emotional, or physical. While emotional and psychological violence is a result of
both physical and sexual violence, it can also arise from other sources such as
dominance, exploitation, verbal abuse, character loss, economic oppression, and
mental torment.
[65]
Table 20: Distribution of forms of Violence Encountered
Forms of violence No. Percentage

Battering with in laws and husband 16 53.33
(Verbal abuse)
Preference of Son 3 10
Control over Economy 6 2o
Polygamy 3 10
Sexual harassment 2 6.66
Total 30 100
The aforementioned data provided justification for the victims' multiple

experiences of domestic abuse, which is a reflection of the low standing of the
daughter-in-law in the home and the stupid and helpless state in which women are
in our society. The data indicates that there is a high incidence of verbal abuse
directed towards the respondents during arguments between spouses and between
laws. Other forms of aggression that cause physical and psychological harm to
women include son preference, control over the money, polygamy, and sexual
harassment. According to studies, the majority of the women had experienced
abuse at the hands of their husbands or in-laws. On these, they have differing
opinions. They must also talk about basic matters like cooking, working in the
field, etc.
[66]
The current research makes use of data from the National Family Health Survey
(NFHS- II), which was carried out between 1998 and 1999. Information on
fertility, family planning practices, infant and child mortality, maternal and child
health, and the use of health services for mothers and children are all provided by
the survey. It also offers indices of domestic violence, women's status,
reproductive health issues, and the standard of health and family welfare services.
A multi-stage sampling design is used in the survey to choose the qualified lady
for the interview. The 90,303 ever-married women in the 15–49 age range who
make up the nationally representative sample on which the research findings of
this publication are based.
We employ both bivariate and multivariate analysis in our analytical method, and
we analyze the data with SPSS 11.5. Numerous variables, including age,
education, work status, age at first marriage, length of marriage, sex of living
children, exposure to mass media, women's autonomy, sex of the head of
household, religion, caste, standard of living, and place of residence of the
household, have been included in both bivariate and multivariate analyses based
on the literature and data that are currently available. The relationship between
each independent variable and each dependent variable is investigated using
bivariate analysis.
Because women's views are dichotomous and provide at least one justification for
a husband beating his wife, multivariate analysis in the form of logistic regression
has been conducted to determine the statistical significance of the association.
Specifically, women have been beaten or physically mistreated since the age of
15, and in the past year, they have been beaten or mistreated.
The "standard of living of the household" and "women's autonomy" composite

indices have been identified as key factors influencing domestic violence.
[67]
The variables "type of house," "ownership of house," "source of lighting," "source

of drinking water," "type of toilet," "type of fuel," "separate room for cooking,"
"ownership of agricultural land," "ownership of irrigated land," "ownership of
livestock," and "ownership of durable goods" have all been taken into
consideration in the construction of the standard of living index (SLI), which is
available in the data itself. The overall value of the index is obtained by adding
the scores assigned to the responses, which range from '0' to '4' on a five-point
scale based on the intensity.
In a similar vein, the "women's autonomy" index was developed by considering

factors such as women's involvement in household decision-making, their
freedom of mobility, and their availability to money for personal use. In order to
calculate the autonomy index, various replies were given distinct scores based on
the intensity on a scale. These values were then added together to determine the
index's overall value . The formula (maximum-minimum)/3 is used to divide the
composite index for autonomy into three groups: low, medium, and high.
[68]
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
5.1 Synopsis
The primary goal of the current study was to confirm that married women in the
study region are victims of domestic abuse. Examining the origins,
manifestations, and effects of domestic violence against women were its main
goals.
In the Sindhupal chowk district's Pangretar VDC, a total of thirty respondents

were interviewed to learn more about the social and economic factors influencing
their day-to-day lives. Interviews were conducted with members of the Pangretar
Women for Human Rights group as well as individuals from other castes and
social classes. This really aided the researcher in learning about the various
traditions, caste systems, religious beliefs, and values that various groups have
with reference to DVAMW.
Descriptive statistics, such percentages and numbers, were employed to describe

the results. Primary data served as the foundation for studies on domestic abuse
against women in socioeconomic and cultural contexts. This is a summary of the
main conclusions of this micro-level investigation.
In the study area, Tamang people made up 36.67% of the respondents, followed
by Chhetri people (30%), Brahman people (20%), Newar people (10%), and
scheduled caste people (3.23%).
[69]
It is generally believed that women from nuclear families are less violent than
those from large families, however all of these family types have experienced
domestic abuse. This study's findings hold true regardless of family size. Women
in nuclear households earn more money each month than those in joint families.
Since they had to take care of the home alone, women were more active in
earning than men were in joint families, when women made up a smaller portion
of the wages. Therefore, psychological torture happens in joint and extended
families, whereas physical violence occurs mostly in nuclear families. Both are
actually forms of domestic violence.
The female literacy rate of 54.86% in Sindhupalchowk is quite low (CBS, 2011).
According to the survey, the majority of respondents have lower levels of
education, and 43.3% of them are illiterate, which has an impact on women's
awareness and empowerment. The study area's female literacy rate was thus
determined to be significantly higher than the Census. that is, 56.70%
It was discovered by the respondents that women engaged in a variety of

occupations to ensure their existence. The majority of respondents (50%) worked
in agriculture; other occupations were housewives (20%), daily wage labor
(16.67%), services (6.67%), and business (6.67%). According to the report, the
majority of them were dependent on their husbands. Those who were doing
additional jobs were unable to meet their basic needs as well.
According to the study, 43.33% of respondents reported experiencing abuse from

their spouse. The primary causes of this were identified as being violent in nature,
less education, drunkenness, economic difficulties, and the husband's second
marriage. The remaining respondents were discovered to have suffered from an
in-law and the husband's stepwife.
[70]
Multiple supports of the primary reasons of victimization are revealed by the

research. The primary reasons for victimization were discovered to be the
husband's alcoholism (63.33%), lack of education (50%), and their lack of
understanding of what domestic abuse is, the prevalence of male dominance in
society, the birth of a girl at 6.6%, the reduction of dowry at 13.4%, and
polygamy at 10%.
According to the study, they were not discovered to be victims of a single kind of
violence. Many forms of violence, including verbal and physical abuse, physical
and psychological torture, polygamy, and sexual harassment, were documented. It
was discovered that all of the ladies had experienced verbal abuse; some had also
experienced physical and psychological abuse.
Results from the field survey indicate that 76.7% of participants did not divulge
anything to anyone else. Few people believe that their mother-in-laws' frequent
arguments using derogatory language is typical in the family and accept that as
their fate.
Social difficulties are brought about by all of these many forms of violence,
including sexual harassment, polygamy, physical and psychological torture, and
verbal abuse. since they are the issues facing society. These are undoubtedly
societal factors that contribute to domestic violence.
[71]
Summary
According to the study's findings, violence against women is defined as any act
that compromises a woman's social, mental, or physical integrity or restricts her
freedom of movement. Even in the twenty-first century, women still do not have
equal access to education and family status. Although other family members,
particularly in-laws, were also a source of domestic abuse for women, husbands
were the primary perpetrators. One particularly pernicious kind of gender-based
violence is domestic abuse. Domestic violence against women is caused by a
number of circumstances, including excessive alcohol consumption, polygamy,
the patriarchal social structure, unfulfilled sexual fantasies, and dowries.
According to this study, 70% had experienced mental violence and 30% had
experienced physical abuse. This result indicates that there is a significant
incidence of domestic violence against women in the studied location.
The study's data indicates that the participants have experienced domestic abuse at
least once in their lifetime. Because of society, many are afraid of the
repercussions and are therefore reluctant to disclose it. Because they place the
blame for their circumstances and depend heavily on others, the majority of
victims choose to keep their pain silent.
The study's findings show that women differ from one another. There is a strict
hierarchy among women: mother-in-law (high rank), sister-in-law (medium
status), and daughter-in-law (low status). The traditions of Nepal, where the
daughter-in-law is obedient to the domestic demands of the household, husband,
and in-law family member, serve as an example of how a woman is socialized
within a patriarchal social structure.
According to research on violence against married women, social and economic

injustice, extreme poverty, illiteracy, and religion are the main causes of the
growth in violence against women and domestic abuse.
[72]
The aforementioned data shows that domestic violence is not only common in
India (21 percent of cases since age 15), but that most women who have ever
married (57 percent) think that there is at least one justification for a husband
hitting his wife. Again, there are significant interstate inequalities in the
acceptance and incidence of violence against women.
Furthermore, it is important to note that a number of factors, including age,

women's education levels, the age at which they marry for the first time, ethnic
and religious groups, women's autonomy, media exposure, women's employment
status, and living standards other than place of residence, greatly influence the
prevalence of domestic violence. However, it is believed that husbands are the
ones that commit violent crimes for various reasons.
Experiences of violence weaken women's ability to take charge of their lives and
undoubtedly impede the nation's socioeconomic and demographic advancement.
Given the problem's ubiquity, it is advised to implement programs that consider
community involvement, with a focus on men in particular, in order to effectively
and profitably address the issue. Once more, it is advised that females' education
be supported, as this will surely serve as a deterrent to domestic abuse. Again,
even though the current research is silent on the legal aspect of the problem, laws
that severely punish those who commit acts of violence against women and grant
them greater rights will always help to reduce the problem.
Given that it is deeply ingrained in sociocultural practices and that both the victim
and the offender take it for granted, the sociocultural milieu has to undergo
significant change. Social norms and attitudes about gender roles need to change
in order to address the issue, make it easier to adopt relevant and suitable
solutions to domestic violence, and eventually stop it from occurring entirely.
[73]
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A PROJECT

Gender-based domestic violence: causes and effects:

Submitted In Partial Fulfillment of the Required

Supervised by: submitted by:

However, the undersigned do not necessarily endorse or take responsibility

(………………….) (Prof. Dr. BEENA DEWAN)

Supervisor (EXTERNAL) Supervisor

Place: JAIPUR ROMIKA BHARTI

.. You don't have to wait for someone to treat you bad

CHAPTER-1: INTRODUCTION 10-20

CHAPTER -2: LITERATURE REVIEW 21-28

CHAPTER –3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 29-32

CHAPTER -4: INTRODUCTION OF STUDY AREA AND RESPONDENTS'

CHAPTER-5: SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 69-73

Table 1: Distribution of respondents by age group 35

Table 2: Distribution of respondents by caste / ethnicity 36

Table 3: Distribution of respondents by Religion 37

Table 4: Distribution of respondents by marital status 38

Table 5: Distribution of respondents according to their literacy status 39

Table 6: Distribution of respondents by family types and monthly Income 40

Table 7: Distribution of respondents by occupation 42

Table 8: Distribution of Types of Domestic Violence based on Age Group 44

Table 9: Distribution of tools used by perpetrators during physical violence 45

Table 10: Distribution of Perpetrators of Violence 47

Table 11: Distribution of Causes of Domestic Violence based on Age 49

Table 12: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic violence based on Age 50

Table 13: Distribution of causes of domestic violence based on Caste/Ethnicity 52

Table 15: Distribution of causes of Domestic violence based on Education Level 56

Table 16: Distribution of Consequences of Domestic Violence based on Education 58

Table 17: Distribution of Causes Domestic Violence based on occupation. 60

Table 18: Distribution of consequences of domestic violence based on occupation 62

Table 19: Distribution of frequency of occurring DV 64

Table 20: Distribution of forms of Violence Encountered 66

Acronyms and abbreviations

CREHPA : Centre for Research on Environment, Health and

CWLAC : Central Women Legal Aid Committee

DVAW : Domestic Violence Against Women

FWDR : Far Western Development Region

GBV : Gender Based Violence

ICPD : International Conference on Population and Declaration

INGO : International Non Governmental Organization

IPV : Intimate Partner Violence

LACC : Legal Aid and Consultant Center

NACVAW: National Advisory Council on Violence Against Women

NGO : Non Governmental Organization Advisory Council

SLC : School Leaving Certificate

UNFPA : United Nations Fund for Population Activities

UNICEF : United Nations International Children‟s Emergency Fund

VAW : Violence Against Women

VDC : Village Development committee

WHE : Women Health Exchange

WHO : World Health Organization

Domestic violence, defined as any act of physical, sexual, or psychological abuse

The idea of "Ardhangini," or "half of the body," appears to be limited to literature

In addition to having a major negative influence on mental health, this

It is essential to have a thorough understanding of women's attitudes and

"Domestic violence" is defined as any act of physical, psychological, or sexual

Nonetheless, an effort has been made to investigate whether married Indian