Violence Is an International Language: Tamil Women's Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence

Authors

Robin Mason, University of Toronto
Ilene Hyman, University of Toronto
Helene Berman, University of Western OntarioFollow
Sepali Guruge, Ryerson University
Pushpa Kanagaratnam, Family Service Toronto
Lisa Manuel, Family Service Toronto

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2008

Journal

Violence against Women

Volume

14

Issue

12

First Page

1397

Last Page

1412

Abstract

Research on intimate partner violence (IPV) across populations is challenging because of the multiplicity of definitions and lack of clarity about the behaviors that constitute IPV. The purpose of this study was to examine the ways in which Sri Lankan Tamil women in Toronto understand, define, and experience IPV. Focus group interviews were conducted with women representing different ages and stages of life. Findings suggest that definitions of IPV were not culturally specific. Rather, the Tamil women defined IPV broadly and recognized different forms of coercive control. However, psychologically abusive behaviors were identified that held particular meanings for this community.

Notes

Published in: Violence Against Women, Vol. 14, No. 12, 1397-1412 (2008). DOI: 10.1177/1077801208325096