The views and perceptions of maternity patients on domestic violence
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Date
2005
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Abstract
Pregnancy is a period of great expectancy and excitement for most women. This is a time that they cherish, and their partners and family members also experience this feeling of excitement. They would strive to prevent any injury that may be caused either through accidents, or through indirect behavior on their side. This implies that the mother would take care to ensure that their own health is optimum for the best possible outcome during the growth and development of their unborn children, during all the phases, which include conception as well as the embryonic and fetal development phases. Unfortunately being pregnant does not exclude women from being subjected to violence
The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the views and perceptions of maternity patients on domestic violence. Towards this purpose, the objectives were formulated, namely:
To explore and describe the views and perceptions of maternity patients on reasons for domestic violence; to explore and describe the views and perceptions of maternity patients on reasons why women do not report domestic violence; to explore and describe the views and perceptions of maternity patients on reasons why women may tend to endure domestic violence, and to explore and describe the views and perceptions of maternity patients on coping strategies they believe women use in situations of domestic violence
For the purpose of this study the Health Belief model was used. The main components from this framework, which was deemed appropriate, were how people perceive the benefits and barriers in health seeking behaviour. (Glanz, Lewis, and Rimer, 1997:10) A quantitative, exploratory and descriptive design was utilized. The study was also contextual in design
The target population comprised of all maternity patients admitted to the Windhoek Central Hospital for the period of April 2004 until March 2005 (Twelve months). To obtain a representative sampling size, it was statistically determined to interview or distribute questionnaires to at least 184 maternity patients. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of open ended and closed ended questions was used in cases where no assistance was needed. In the cases where assistance was needed to complete the questionnaire, the researcher utilized the questionnaire as an interview tool
Descriptive statistical analysis was used for describing the data and it included techniques whereby information was sorted, arranged, collected and presented in a scientific manner. (Uys & Basson, 1991:109) This was done using the Scientific Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)
As this study utilized concepts based on the "Health Belief Model", it was necessary to identify factors which could modify views and perceptions. This was done by implementing correlation statistics, and specifically the Pearson correlation coefficient (X2 / Chi- square). It was found that some views and perceptions were influenced by biographical differences like education, age, and economic status. In some instances the views/perceptions of the maternity patients were in line with researched literature. It was recommended that during the assistance of maternity patients or during health education that consideration be given to these differences in views and perceptions.
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Keywords
Domestic violence, Health care, Perceptions