Perceptions of Factors Contributing to Intimate Partner Violence Among Sri Lankan Tamil Immigrant Women in Canada

Authors

Ilene Hyman, University of Toronto
Robin Mason, Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, ON
Sepali Guruge, Ryerson University
Helene Berman, The University of Western Ontario
Pushpa Kanagaratnam, University of Toronto
Lisa Manuel, Family Service Toronto, Toronto, ON

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2011

Journal

Health Care for Women International

Volume

32

Issue

9

First Page

779

Last Page

794

URL with Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07399332.2011.569220

Abstract

In this article we explore Sri Lankan Tamil immigrant women's views on factors contributing to intimate partner violence (IPV). We conducted eight focus groups with young, midlife, and senior women and women who experienced IPV. Three main themes emerged: postmigration sources of stress and conflict, patriarchal social norms that dictated gendered behavior, and individual male attributes and behaviors. Study participants recognized gender inequality and financial dependence as contributing factors and the role of women in promoting marital harmony. Findings suggest that pre- and postmigration factors need to be considered in the prevention of IPV in newcomer communities.