"The real world" : a study of domestic abuse in Salford

Wood, ACM

Abstract

Research shows that domestic abuse is a deeply gendered experience with women accounting for the majority of its victims. Its impact on individuals cannot be overstated. This study presents an in-depth examination of the impact of domestic abuse on women in Salford. An ethnographic approach was used in order to highlight cultural factors of a geographical area known for its high rates of domestic abuse. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with seven women recruited from a women’s group for domestic abuse survivors held at Salford Women’s Centre and at the two women’s refuges in Salford. Ethnographic observations were also recorded from my time spent in field settings. Field materials were transcribed verbatim and a thematic approach was utilised for the analytic process. Six over-arching themes were identified: (1) constructs of abuse - including types of abuse experienced, cycle/escalation of abuse and post-separation abuse; (2) impact of abuse - including mental health issues and a loss of self; (3) leaving - including barriers to leaving and motivation to leave; (4) the future - including fear and inner strength; (5) agency involvement - social services, police and non-statutory domestic abuse organisations and (6) cultural factors. The findings were discussed with reference to the works of Judith Butler whose theory of gender performativity utilises a feminist, deconstructive approach to gender identities, providing insights into the nature of intimate relationships in Salford. The study makes an original contribution to the knowledge base on domestic abuse in terms of the methodological strands used which developed a gender-specific understanding of this serious social issue and considered how social work practitioners can best respond to it. The ethnographic approach highlights the cultural influences in attitudes towards abuse and the impact on the performativity of gender roles in Salford.

Citation

Wood, A. (in press). "The real world" : a study of domestic abuse in Salford. (Thesis). Salford University

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Acceptance Date: Mar 19, 2023
• Deposit Date: Jun 17, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 17, 2016