Abstract
D.Phil.
The extent of the problem of domestic violence within the rural
communities challenges all individuals to be involved in fighting the
problem. This calls for a change in mindset that issues of domestic
violence are communal rather than private. Resources such as
shelters are not available in the whole Province and this makes it
difficult for the victim to secure a safe home. The community needs to
be involved in providing the necessary support to couples experiencing
domestic violence such as provision of a home to the victims and their
children in times of need. The community should stop victim blaming
and make the perpetrator accountable for his behaviour.
The overall aim of this study is to develop, implement and evaluate a
psycho-educational programme of support to couples experiencing
domestic violence to facilitate their mental health. The researcher had
prolonged engagement with the victims of domestic violence and the
communities, which are involved.
A programme development, qualitative, exploratory, descriptive,
evaluative and contextual study was conducted. Four steps were used
to develop, implement and evaluate a psycho-educational programme
of support to couples experiencing domestic violence.
The first step involved situation analysis and key stakeholders were
identified. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with the
victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. The interviews were
conducted to explore and describe the phenomenon of victims and
perpetrators of domestic· violence. Focus group and individual
interviews were conducted with stakeholders who deal with domestic
violence to describe their views regarding domestic violence.