Abstract
M.A. (Social Work)
Marital violence is not a new phenomenon, but one which
has, until recently, been conveniently avoided by
researchers on account of its sensitive and tabu qualities.
Very little research has been done in South Africa on
marital violence. The purpose of this exploratory study
is to determine priorities for further research and to
develop hypotheses which would generate future research.
Contemporary literature dated back to 1970 was explored.
From the literature review the following conclusions were
drawn :
Ignorance and misconceptions exist concerning the nature,
range, contributing factors and effects of marital violence.
Violence in the marital relationship can occur with as few
as 15,6% to as many as 60% of all married couples.
Marital violence is mostly directed at the wife, it occurs
usually repeatedly and increases in severity over time, it
can take on different forms and marital violence sometimes
results in serious injuries. A wide variety of factors
contribute to marital violence and no one factor can be
isolated as the primary cause.
The study also identified insufficient community resources
and support programmes directed at couples who experience
marital violence, as a serious constraint in the helping
process. Furthermore it appears that involvement of the
family and the social environment is a prerequisite for
effective intervention programmes and the prevention of
marital violence. A multi-professional team approach which
emphasises helping people rather than prosecuting them,
appears to be desirable. Lastly, intervention related to
and prevention of marital violence should be incorporated
in a comprehensive social welfare policy.