Perception of domestic violence against women with physical and/ or neurological impairment.

Abstract

Introduction: Violence against women is recognized as a serious public health problem. It is an obstacle to achieving the goals of equality, development and peace, yet it is a violation of human rights. Objective: to evaluate the perception of domestic violence by women who present physical and / or neurological impairment. Method: We included women with some physical and / or neurological disabilities who were followed up at the Clinic- School of Physical Therapy at the University Center. Results: Eight women had clinical conditions that allowed them to participate in the focal group. Results: Age on average 65.5 years, 62% married, white, evangelical religion, did not work and had low schooling. Regarding violence, 23% of the women interviewed reported having suffered physical and psychological violence before their physical / neurological deficiency. After the disability, 46% of the group reported suffering psychological violence and 8% physical violence. Three categories emerged after content analysis: A) Non-acceptance by husband and other family members regarding the disease. B) Difficulty in expressing yourself can lead to submission. C) Prevention of violence against women should begin in childhood. Conclusion: health professionals should be prepared to act at the prevention levels of the natural history of health and disease.