Intimate Partner Violence and Homelessness among Women: The Role of the YWCA to Rebuild Their Lives

Abstract

The problem of intimate partner violence is multifaceted and intricate. Women face intimate partner violence due to a lack of control over power and economic resources. Women experience various issues, i.e., economic and sexual coercion, emotional abuse, and so on. In many cases, they faded out of their social circumstances, and they were inefficient at moving forward with their lives. In extreme cases, they become homeless and socially isolated. In that situation, extensive social support is required to bring them back to a normal life. The study aims to explore the role of the YWCA in rebuilding women’s lives who experienced IPV. The study sought to shed light on their systems for addressing intimate violence cases and how they advocate for and support the victims to resume their social lives following traumatic experiences and promote safe housing. The study's findings showed that when women experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, they were often trapped and subjugated by their intimate partners. The women faced restrictions and control over the financial resources and activities that were imposed by their intimate partners. Therefore, due to limited interactions with neighbors and friends, women were also disadvantaged in seeking support from others. Hence, the YWCA plays a noteworthy role for women in mitigating and coping with the traumatic experiences of intimate partner violence and homelessness.