Factors Associated with Coping Behaviors of Abused Women: Findings from the 2016 Domestic Violence Survey

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is an important public health problem. In Korea, limited studies have systematically investigated the coping strategies used by female IPV victims. Purpose: We identified the factors associated with abused women's coping behaviors in South Korea. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study comprises secondary data analysis using the 2016 Domestic Violence Survey; we examined women who experienced domestic violence (DV) in the last year: September to December 2016 (n = 309). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted using an ecological model. Results: Over 50% responded they did nothing, while others escaped the scene of violence or ran outside and became reciprocally violent as coping behaviors sequentially. Compared to the women who did nothing, women who experienced feelings of intimidation or fear due to DV, were sexually abused, and suffered physical injury were 5.44, 3.22, and 3.02 times, respectively, more likely to escape from the scene than those who did not. Most showed passive coping behaviors. Relationship level factors, such as type of DV and physical injury, were significantly associated with the type of coping behavior. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize that multi-level comprehensive health programs are required, especially for women coping passively, to prevent and respond to DV.

Automated summary

This study investigated the coping strategies adopted by female victims of domestic violence in South Korea and identified factors associated with these strategies. The majority of women exhibited passive coping behaviors, such as doing nothing. Women who experienced feelings of intimidation or fear, sexual abuse, and physical injury were more likely to escape the violence. The findings highlight the need for multi-level comprehensive health programs, particularly for women who cope passively, to prevent and respond to domestic violence.