"I established a life; I can re-establish it again": Lived experiences of intimate partner violence in Mongolia.

Violence against women persists globally, transcending intersecting backgrounds, such as race, gender, socio-economic status, education, and ableness. The reality remains that women across diverse intersections continue to endure various forms of violence. According to a nationwide study, 30 % of women experience intimate partner violence during their lifetime in Mongolia. The present research adopts an intersectional lens to comprehensively address the survival experiences of Mongolian women who had lived through intimate partner violence. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants recruited through purposive sampling, most of whom had ended a relationship involving intimate partner violence. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes among survival experiences. Although women's experiences varied, intimate partner violence confronted them with the dilemma of maintaining or going against traditional values, including family unity when seeking protection (and safety) for themselves and their children. The women's survival experiences included a combination of building a sense of community and rebuilding a sense of self, while self-contentment was achieved when the women ceased to blame themselves. This study highlights a critical shift in mindset and behavior by investigating the survival experiences of women who defy social norms, prioritizing family unity over personal well-being. Recognition of survivors' efforts to cease self-blame and seek support signifies a crucial advancement in the survival process. The findings suggest a positive trend toward self-empowerment and a willingness to access the necessary resources and support systems. From a practical standpoint, these findings advocate for strengthening current interventions that empower survivors to challenge norms, cease self-blame, and actively seek assistance.

Posttraumatic growth: Experiences of Mongolian and Hungarian survivors of intimate partner violence.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare posttraumatic growth (PTG) of Mongolian and Hungarian survivors of intimate partner violence. METHODS: The study employed semi-structured interviews with fifteen women - ten Mongolian and five Hungarian survivors. Thematic analysis identified patterns and themes regarding survivors' PTG. RESULTS: PTG occurred in all participants, and identified themes were; positive changes, strengthened or new relationships and role models, personal strength, interest in advocacy for social change, and new found appreciation of life. Along with learning new skills and knowledge, a sense of security and caring for children were apparent as positive changes as well. Participants acknowledged interpersonal relationships through communities, including parents, colleagues and friends. Personal strengths, such as being trustworthy and optimistic, also contributed to the PTG with realized independence, increased self-confidence, assertiveness and being brave. Participants identified as individuals striving for social justice and being social change agents by involvement in local non-governmental organizations. Appreciation of life was enhanced or encouraged by supportive parents, community and believing in oneself. CONCLUSION: Similarities between Hungary and Mongolian survivors are more than the differences in posttraumatic growth for survivors of intimate partner violence. Posttraumatic growth includes acquiring new skills, aspiring for the future, interpersonal relationships, perseverance, and being social change agents. A sense of security, a sense of autonomy, independence and self-worth were significant common features found in this study.