An exploration into domestic abuse and so-called 'honour'-based violence and abuse experienced by South Asian women

Garg, Poonam (2021). An exploration into domestic abuse and so-called 'honour'-based violence and abuse experienced by South Asian women. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

Preview

Garg2021ForenPsyD.pdf
Text - Accepted Version
Available under License All rights reserved.
Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract

This thesis sets out to contribute to the gap in literature exploring how harm against South Asian women, through the perpetration of domestic abuse and so-called ‘honour’-based violence and abuse, can be prevented. Chapter One provides an overview of domestic abuse and so-called ‘honour’-based violence and abuse within South Asian communities and the vulnerabilities of women belonging to this population.

Chapter Two, a systematic review of 15 papers on so-called ‘honour’ killings in South Asia and the Middle East, finds differences in characteristics of victims and perpetrators of so-called ‘honour’ killings in India and Pakistan. A link between religion and so-called ‘honour’ killings is not found; however, some socio-demographic factors may contribute to supportive attitudes towards these murders. The prevailing factor maintaining so-called ‘honour’ killings appears to be patriarchy. Chapter Three critically evaluates the Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment used to assess domestic abuse recidivism risk. It finds support for the risk assessment’s predictive ability; however further research is required to assess its reliability and use among different ethnicities. Chapter Four, an empirical study examines factors that may encourage female South Asian survivors (n = 80) of domestic abuse and honour- based violence and abuse to seek support sooner from a charity based in the UK. The trends from the study indicates that acculturation, frequency of abuse and support in keeping children safe, may be associated with quicker formal support-seeking, but further research is required.

Chapter Five discusses the thesis highlighting theoretical and practical implications and future direction for research on how harm experienced by South Asian women can be reduced.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):