Factors associated with violence against women who attend counselling centres in Kingston and St. Andrew, Jamaica

ABSTRACT

One of the problems of modern society is the extent to which violence has become a part of everyday life. Daily reports in the news media suggest that the problem is increasing and while previous research findings suggest a number of factors, which contribute to the problem, there is no indication that mitigation measures are actually helping. In fact reported incidents of violence continue to increase both in Jamaica and the world in general. Violence against women has also become a major problem all over the world. Reports indicate that incidents of violence against women range from 22 percent in some countries to a high of 59 percent in others, (Heise, 1994). Measures to address the problem in Jamaica has resulted in the establishment of a Crisis Centre, which seeks to help abused persons, primarily women. This study was carried out at the Crisis Centre and the Family Court located in Kingston in 1998. A total of 87 abused persons who sought help at these facilities within the study period were interviewed. The abuse took many forms and required various degrees of medical and emotional attention. Of weapons used the gun and stick featured prominently. Several reasons were given for the abuse experienced by respondents, however jealousy resulting in quarrels over a third party was the most common reason given for the onset of abuse (81 percent). When asked why they remained in the abusive situation respondents indicated children as the main cause 80.5 percent of the time. Medical attention was received from private medical practitioners 43 percent of the time, while 72.4 percent of respondents expressed a willingness to testify against their abusers in court. The use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and cocaine was prevalent, suggesting some link between substance abuse and the violence carried out against female partners. Most respondents indicated that friends and family members were the main sources of support. Very little practical assistance was obtained from the church, an institution of which almost all respondents were members. Respondents cited counselling as the main reason for attending counselling centres. In light of the findings recommendation could include mandatory counselling for males abuse who women and public education programmes to sensitize the society on the consequences of violence against women.(Au)