A Victim-Centered Intervention: Feminist Social Work and How to Approach Victims of Violence Against Women

Abstract

Despite the efforts for combating it, violence against women (VaW) still seems to be prevalent in Indonesia, shown by the high number of cases happening. The viscous patriarchal system is considered to be one of the factors that prolong the existence of VaW. Owing to how manifested this system is, it also impacts the handling of VaW cases, particularly the intervention by law enforcement officers, as the solution or treatment given were not sensitive toward the victims. Therefore, feminist social work as an alternatives approach to handle VaW cases is essential. This article aims to identify how feminist social work could contribute to developing an approach that is sensitive toward victims, often women. This research is conducted in a qualitative manner, sourcing case reports of VaW in Indonesia and also literature study of feminist social work. The article identifies some principles that are vital in developing a feminist social work intervention such as commonalities, active discussion, empathy, and partnership. Along with these principles, ideas of practice such as consciousness-raising, reflexivity, dialogue, developing client’s identity, and ethics of care were also identified.