The Structural and Systemic Factors Influencing Underreporting of Intimate Partner Violence among Rural Married Women: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

This study utilized a phenomenological design to examine the factors that contribute to the underreporting of occurrences of intimate partner violence (IPV) among married women living in rural areas. We obtained the data from a sample of 12 married women recruited using snowball sampling techniques and from four key informants recruited using purposive sampling. The study revealed structural factors such as limited service availability, corruption, and negative attitudes from service providers, and existing systemic barriers. It provides new approaches to address and eliminate the underreporting of IPV, thereby contributing to broader initiatives aimed at achieving gender equality.

Keywords

Intimate partner violence reporting married women rural qualitative research Zimbabwe

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