Domestic violence in a black rural community : guidelines for a social work prevention programme

Abstract

The study explored the experiences of black women in a rural community regarding domestic violence. It was aimed at discovering what causes domestic violence to women and how to prevent this type of violence. Twenty black women participated in the study. These women were from Ganyesa Village in the North West Province of South Africa. Demographic characteristics included marital status, employment status, qualifications as well as age distribution. Data was collected through individual interviews, and questionnaires were completed anonymously. All participants responded to the stimulus question: "How do you feel when being abused and what efforts do you take to solve the problem?" The method of investigation was a literature study and an empirical research. Guidelines for a social work prevention programme were developed.