The importance of work for female survivors of domestic violence

Abstract

Domestic violence is a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviour which feeds off patriarchy and discrimination and it is sometimes described as an epidemic which affects intimate relationships (Women's Aid, 2007). 90% of the victims are women and most perpetrators are men. The aim of this qualitative study is to look at the benefits of gainful employment for women survivors of domestic violence. In depth semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions were conducted with five gainfully employed women. The data was analysed throu9h Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 1990). This study suggests that paid work is beneficial to women survivors of domestic violence for more than one reason. First and foremost paid work makes women financially independent from their perpetrators and fosters a sense of motivation to move on in life. Furthermore work provides such women with a much needed sense of social connectedness. The support of family, friends, professionals together with the direct support of employers and work mates, are fundamental for such women to make the shift from victims to survivors of domestic violence. Overall these findings suggest that employment plays a crucial and positive role in the lives of domestic violence survivors.