Article Title: Spousal Abuse among Pakistani Women: A Thematic Analysis
Author(s): Hina Sultan, Amina Obaid Khawaja and Tehziba Kousir
Institute(s); Department of Psychology, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
Journal: Pakistan Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology 2016, Vol. 14, No.2, 33-41
Correspondence ddress: Hina Sultan, Department of Psychology, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan; e-mail: hina.sultan91@yahoo.com
Abstract
The present research is a qualitative exploration of spousal abuse faced by Pakistani women residing in Lahore. Using Thematic analysis, we investigated different dimensions of spousal abuse, seeking to understand the forms of abuse experienced by women and how they feel, think, and react in response to it. For this purpose, a purposive sample of 16 women was taken. Data were collected through six semi-structured interviews and focus group method. The findings revealed that the women were experiencing a myriad of abuse and mistreatment including physical violence, emotional abuse ranging from humiliation to cold indifference, disempowerment and deprivation. This led to effects on their sense of self, physical and mental health, cognitions, relationships and wellbeing.
Keywords: spousal abuse, urban women, thematic analysis, mental health.
