Factors affecting help-seeking behavior in women exposed to spousal violence in Iran

Domestic violence against women is one of the most serious social issues. This study aimed to identify predictors of help-seeking behavior among women exposed to spousal violence.

The present study was a descriptive-analytical study conducted in 2022 among women attending comprehensive health service centers in Lorestan Province, Iran. A total of 525 participants were recruited using multi-stage sampling methods, including stratified, cluster, and simple random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires on spousal violence and help-seeking behavior. Data analysis was performed using independent t-tests, ANOVA, and Stata 14 software.

The highest prevalence of physical and psychological violence dimensions were related to slapping (69.9%) and belittling (84.38%), respectively. In terms of sexual violence, non-consensual sexual intercourse (24.76%) was the most prevalent. The most common sources for seeking help were individual's family (70.48%), healthcare providers (56%), and spouse's family (53.90%). Help-seeking behavior for physical (p=0.02) and psychological violence (p=0.007) was higher in higher-income groups. Women whose spouses had university education exhibited higher help-seeking behavior for physical (p=0.015) and psychological violence (p=0.011) compared to others. Help-seeking behavior regarding physical violence (p<0.001) and sexual violence (p=0.004) was more frequent among individuals residing in Borujerd and Khorramabad cities compared to other cities in the province.

Multiple factors associated with help-seeking behavior were identified, including spouse's education level, women experiencing physical violence, place of residence, and household wealth status. Policies and interventions should be developed to address these factors and improve women's health outcomes and prevent intimate partner violence (IPV). Considering the limited formal help-seeking behavior in Iran, governmental policies should focus on preventing IPV through various means, such as increasing demand for women's access to formal services (healthcare, legal, and social services) when experiencing IPV.