Characterization of women victims of date partner violence in the Fomento municipality

Abstract

Introduction: Intimate partner violence occurs when one member causes physical, sexual, or psychological harm or applies controlling behaviors over the other. In particular, violence against women is a social problem today. Objective: To characterize women victims of intimate partner violence in the Fomento municipality during the period 2022-2023. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. The population consisted of 45 women over 20 years of age who went to the Women and Family Guidance Center for reasons of intimate partner violence and met the inclusion criteria. Sociodemographic variables (age, educational level, and occupation) and variables related to violence (type of violence, search for support, and reasons for tolerance) were studied. Results: It was found that the majority of women victims of intimate partner violence were between 30 and 39 years old, had a secondary school education, and were engaged in housework. The main form of violence exercised was physical, followed by psychological. In general, they did not seek help to combat the abuse and tolerated it because they did not have a home of their own to live in. Conclusions: Intimate partner violence in the municipality of Fomento is manifested to a greater extent against women between 30 and 39 years old, housewives with a secondary education level. Physical and psychological violence prevails, as does the lack of seeking support, and not owning one's own home stands out as a key reason for remaining in abusive relationships.