Evaluation of domestic violence awareness and affecting factors in the central district of Edirne

Domestic violence is a significant problem that has adverse effects on individuals, families, and society as a whole, both biologically, psychologically, and socially. Increasing awareness of domestic violence is crucial for preventing its occurrence, leading to improvements in the health of individuals and the community. This study aims to evaluate the awareness of domestic violence and the factors influencing it among individuals in the central district of Edirne. The study was conducted from February 1, 2023, to May 31, 2023, with 405 patients aged 18 and above registered at the Family Medicine unit in the central district of Edirne who agreed to participate in the study. All consenting patients constitute the population of the study. Data were collected through a questionnaire consisting of 29 questions that inquire about participants' sociodemographic characteristics, marital features, sources of information on domestic violence, places to seek help after domestic violence, experiences of domestic violence, and post-violence behavioral patterns. The questionnaire also included 20 questions related to the Domestic Violence Awareness Scale. The mean age of the participants was 41.48±12.75, and the average score obtained from the Domestic Violence Awareness Scale was determined to be 24.03±4.43. It was identified that participants had low awareness of domestic violence. The study revealed that age, gender, marital status, types of marriage, duration of knowing one's spouse, having children, the presence of someone responsible for household chores, educational status, spouse's educational status, and occupation influenced domestic violence awareness. Family physicians should consider their patients as potential victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. They should provide counseling on domestic violence at the earliest opportunity, with a thorough understanding of the patient's marriage and household dynamics, ensuring effective communication.