Factors Associated with Spousal Physical Violence Against Women in Bangladesh

TLDR

This study explores factors associated with domestic violence in urban and rural Bangladesh. The study uses data from a population‑based survey of 2,702 women of reproductive age and 28 in‑depth interviews of abused women conducted during 2000–01. Multilevel analysis revealed that dowry or other marriage demands, a history of the husband’s mother being abused by his father, and women’s income in rural areas increased violence risk, whereas better spousal communication and higher husband education (beyond tenth grade overall, beyond sixth grade in urban areas) reduced risk, highlighting key targets for interventions.

Abstract

Using data from a population-based survey of 2,702 women of reproductive age and from 28 in-depth interviews of abused women conducted during 2000–01, this study explores factors associated with domestic violence in urban and rural Bangladesh. Multilevel analysis revealed that in both residential areas, dowry or other demands in marriage and a history of abuse of the husband's mother by his father increased the risk of violence. Better spousal communication and husband's education beyond the tenth grade decreased the risk of violence. In the urban area, women's being younger than their husband and participating in savings and credit groups increased the risk of abuse, whereas husband's education beyond the sixth grade had a protective effect. In the rural area, women's earning an income increased the risk. These factors are important to consider when designing interventions.