Authors

Discussion

Exploring domestic violence (DV) narratives is urgent due to its pervasive negative effects on both adults and children, encompassing short-term and long-term physical and mental consequences. DV significantly impacts women’s health and well-being globally, necessitating a nuanced understanding of its socio-economic determinants and the lived experiences of survivors in specific cultural contexts. This study delves into the experiences of DV survivors in Kazakhstan, a Central Asian country, to illuminate the multifaceted nature of DV and inform targeted policies and practices. The urgency of addressing DV in Central Asia is underscored by cultural, economic, and legal factors that uniquely impact survivors in this region. The study employed a qualitative design, conducting virtual semi-structured interviews with 12 survivors of domestic violence in Kazakhstan. Data collection lasted 4 months in 2022, following approval from the Institutional Review Board of the university. Participants were informed of potential risks and benefits and signed consent forms. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic and survivors’ potential hesitancy to share their experiences, a financial compensation of 5000 tenge (approximately 10 USD) was offered to encourage participation. The recruitment process consisted of three stages: (1) social care organizations reached out to former service recipients; (2) social networking sites and partnerships with gender equality activists promoted the study; and (3) snowball sampling where participants referred other survivors. To ensure emotional stability and relevancy of experiences, only survivors who had experienced violence no later than a year but no earlier than two years were included. Although 25 women expressed interest, only 12 met the eligibility criteria and participated in the study. The interview protocol included questions on demographic profiles, experiences of domestic violence, sources of support, and recommendations. Data were analyzed using NVivo software, employing thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns-. The findings highlighted significant heterogeneity among participants, with variations in demographic profiles, socio-economic standings, and encounters with domestic violence. Women from diverse backgrounds are equally susceptible to domestic violence, experiencing multiple forms such as physical abuse and various control tactics. The narratives also underscored the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences, illustrating how early exposure to violence shapes future vulnerabilities. The study emphasizes the urgent need for tailored interventions and policies to effectively address DV in Kazakhstan and the broader Central Asian context.