Domestic Violence Perceptions in a Sample of Moroccan Participants

• In Event: What is Still Unseen in Violent Relationships: Sexual Coercion, Impression Management, and Cultural Definitions

Abstract

This study examines how average Moroccans define and conceptualize intimate partner violence (IPV) using thematic analysis of archival interviews. Despite the growing drive to offer a multicultural understanding of violence, there is a paucity of domestic violence research that allows for local conceptualizations. Eleven individual and two focus group interviews were collected for a graduate level study abroad course for a total of 26 participants. Participants were asked to describe domestic violence and why they think that men become violent. Responses were written and written transcripts were sorted into emerging themes which were then developed into codes. Findings reflect that Moroccans understand and recognize IPV but emphasize different areas of abuse than Western focused studies. In particular, responses indicated that Moroccans conceptualized IPV as a societal problem in addition to locating individual causes. Solutions were also focused on prevention rather than treatment. Cultural implications will be discussed and lessons learned shared.

Authors

• Laura Cheatham, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Nicole Bassil, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Chitra Raghavan, John Jay College of Criminal Justice