Domestic violence around Gondar in Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract Background: Domestic violence has largely been unrecognized and underreported in Ethiopia. However, recent reports indicate that it is highly prevalent. Objective: To assess the prevalence of domestic violence and factors associated with domestic violence. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 1104 women in Gondar Zuria District, Northwest Ethiopia, from March to April 2003. Results: The percentage of women who ever experienced physical, sexual, and/or psychological abuse was 50.8. The prevalence of physical violence was found to be 32.2%, while that of forced sex and physical intimidation amounted to 19.2% and 35.7%, respectively. Exposure to parental domestic violence as a girl was the strongest risk factor for being victim of violence later in life while alcohol consumption was the major attribute of violent partners. Answering to partners was the most important triggering factor for violence. Women prefer the educational approach to minimize violence. Conclusion: Domestic violence is highly prevalent in the study area and multiple factors operate in determining whether a man would behave violently towards his female partner, indicating the need for multi-faceted interventions, such as IEC, women is empowerment and legal reform. Ethiop.J.Health Dev. 2004;18(3):133-139