Domestic violence: a cross-sectional study in an Iranian city

Abstract

To determine the prevalence of domestic physical violence against women and its associated factors in Sanandaj city, Islamic Republic of Iran, a random sample of 1000 married women completed a questionnaire. Of the respondents, 15% had been assaulted by their husbands at least once in the previous year and 38% at some time during the marriage. Economic problems were the most frequent cause of domestic quarrels. There was a significant association between husbands' educational level and violence against wives. Physical violence against housewives was significantly more frequent than against employed women. Husband's job was also significantly associated with violence. The existence of a child or daughter in the family was associated with less domestic physical violence against women.