Experiences Of Intimate Partner Violence Among Migrant Female Head Porters In Kumasi

Abstract

Although intimate partner violence has been in existence for decades, it is a social problem because it violates human rights in many countries including Ghana. Hence, this study explored the experiences of intimate partner violence among migrant female head porters in Kumasi. The objectives of the study were to (a) explore the forms of intimate partner violence experienced by migrant female head porters, (b) identify the factors that contribute to intimate partner violence among migrant female head porters, (c) find out the effects of intimate partner violence on migrant female head porters and (d) ascertain the coping strategies adopted by migrant female head porters in abusive relationships. The study adopted a qualitative research design and selected 23 participants comprising 17 migrant female head porters, two group leaders from the head porters, two officials from Marie Stopes International and two officials from Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU). Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed and individual interviews were used to collect data. The data were analysed thematically and it was found that, migrant female head porters experienced physical, sexual, psychological and financial abuse. In addition, the study revealed that, factors such as alcohol and drug addiction, lack of education, culture of silence, and cultural beliefs contributed to intimate partner violence among migrant female head porters. Furthermore, it was found that, physical injuries, limited use of contraceptives, inability to provide for children’s basic needs, were some effects of partner violence on migrant female head porters. Moreover, evidence showed that, none of the migrant female head porters consulted institutions like DOVVSU for help. The study concludes that, migrant women are vulnerable to intimate partner violence and therefore recommends that, DOVVSU should design programs that would help detect and address intimate partner violence among migrant populations.