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Article
Perceptions of Factors Contributing to Intimate Partner Violence Among Sri Lankan Tamil Immigrant Women in Canada
Health Care for Women International
  • Ilene Hyman, University of Toronto
  • Robin Mason, Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, ON
  • Sepali Guruge, Ryerson University
  • Helene Berman, The University of Western Ontario
  • Pushpa Kanagaratnam, University of Toronto
  • Lisa Manuel, Family Service Toronto, Toronto, ON
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2011
URL with Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07399332.2011.569220
Disciplines
Abstract

In this article we explore Sri Lankan Tamil immigrant women's views on factors contributing to intimate partner violence (IPV). We conducted eight focus groups with young, midlife, and senior women and women who experienced IPV. Three main themes emerged: postmigration sources of stress and conflict, patriarchal social norms that dictated gendered behavior, and individual male attributes and behaviors. Study participants recognized gender inequality and financial dependence as contributing factors and the role of women in promoting marital harmony. Findings suggest that pre- and postmigration factors need to be considered in the prevention of IPV in newcomer communities.

Citation Information
Ilene Hyman, Robin Mason, Sepali Guruge, Helene Berman, et al.. "Perceptions of Factors Contributing to Intimate Partner Violence Among Sri Lankan Tamil Immigrant Women in Canada" Health Care for Women International Vol. 32 Iss. 9 (2011) p. 779 - 794
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/helene-berman/26/