NCJ Number
190648
Journal
Trauma, Violence, and Abuse Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: October 2001 Pages: 296-315
Date Published
October 2001
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This literature review focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of existing research on spouse abuse and other intimate partner violence in China and compares the findings with other populations.
Abstract
The review also examines knowledge about Chinese women’s position in society and family, risk factors for domestic assault, social barriers that prevent victims from receiving help, and mental and physical outcomes of domestic assault. Chinese people make up one fifth of the world’s total population. However, little knowledge exists regarding the prevalence, risk factors, and health outcomes of intimate partner violence among this population. Public awareness and research on domestic assault in Chinese populations in the United States and Canada is also lacking. Thus, research needs to focus on this issue to increase the Chinese public’s recognition of this social problem and its impact on women’s rights and health. The available literature indicates that people in China, unlike people in Western countries, do not recognize domestic assault as a social problem that needs discussion by citizens and coverage by the news media. The society usually ignores it. No one in the health care system advocates attention to the problem. However, writings on Chinese culture contain many references to verbal and physical abuse of women. The World Health Organization’s multicountry study of domestic violence against women exemplifies the type of research needed. Further efforts include additional research, public education, and active action by health care providers to conduct culturally appropriate assessments of domestic assault and assessment of mental and physical health ramifications. Tables, author biographies, 5 suggested readings, and 124 references (Author abstract modified)