Determinants of intimate partner violence victimization among married women in Uganda

Abstract

Intimate Partner Violence continues to exist in many Ugandan’s households and is a major public health concern. This study examined the risk factors of intimate partner violence victimization among married women aged 15-49 years in Uganda. The study used 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) data with a weighted sample of 5642 married women aged 15-49 years who were selected for the domestic module. Analysis of frequency distribution, binary logistic regression and generalized structural equation modeling was done.

The study identified that 47% of women experienced intimate partner violence. Employed women had higher odds of experiencing any IPV compared to unemployed women (OR=1.17; CI: 1.02-1.35). Older women aged 30-49 years were twice more likely to experience intimate partner violence compared to those aged 15-19 years. Women with decision-making power and a controlling husband had lower likelihood of experiencing intimate partner violence compared to their counterpart with no decision-making power.

In conclusion, the study highlights that woman from poor households, employed women and those with controlling husbands are at a greater risk of experiencing intimate partner violence, whereas women with decision-making capacity are at a lower risk. To address this issue comprehensively, interventions should focus on strengthening women's decision-making skills, implementing economic empowerment programs for women from poor households, and conducting gender sensitization programs to challenge harmful gender norms. Additionally, educational campaigns addressing controlling behaviors among husbands and engaging men in discussions about healthy masculinity and respectful relationships can further reduce IPV and create safer environments for women.