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Abstract
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Backround
Many victims of domestic violence do not access the medical and legal services which they need. The aim of this study was to determine the difficulties and experiences of female domestic violence survivors during their medical and legal proceedings.
Method
We designed our study using a qualitative approach to understand survivors' experiences during the legal process as well as their feelings and attitudes towards domestic violence through in-depth interviews. Obtained data from participants were analyzed and synthesized by using a thematic analysis procedure.
Results
Most of our participants reported that they had suffered from different types of domestic violence, stated that when they experienced violence, they felt fear and loneliness. They reported their reports were not accepted by the police and feeling unhappy that the perpetrators were not punished. They complained about procedures in health care centers while they were in the hospitals, no one paid attention to them, and they were transferred to a number of different places.
Conclusion
We thought that assessment of these survivors in accordance with specific standards by specialists, who have female perspective, will make progress of legal process better. Education programs for professionals dealing with survivors of domestic violence must be organized. Special health care services where proceedings can be completed quickly must be established in health care centers.
Language: en |