More than half of Vietnamese women experience physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their husbands at some time in their lives, according to a national study on domestic violence. The study was organized by the Government of Vietnam and the United Nations and sought to uncover the prevalence, frequency, and type of violence women experience, the factors that reduce or increase women’s risk of domestic violence, the impact of violence on women’s health, and the coping strategies and services women employ to deal with domestic violence. The results were obtained through interviews with women between the ages of 18 and 60 years old.

The study found that the prevalence of domestic violence varies according to regional and ethnic factors. When examining the impact of domestic violence on women’s health, the study found that women who experience violence are two times more likely to report poor health and physical problems and three times more likely to contemplate suicide, compared to women who have never been abused. The study found that women also report being beaten during pregnancy. In addition, children of women who suffer domestic violence are more likely to be abused and suffer behavioral problems compared to other children.

Lastly, the study shows that despite the high prevalence of domestic violence in Vietnam, it is still a hidden problem. Women do not speak out about the violence they experience due to the shame and stigma that surrounds domestic violence and due to thinking that violence in relationships is normal.

To access the full report, please click here.

Compiled from: New study shows high prevalence of domestic violence in Viet Nam, United Nations Viet Nam, (25 November 2010); wunrn.com.