Understanding domestic violence in India during COVID-19: A Routine activity approach

Krishnakumar, Akshaya and Verma, Shankey (2021) Understanding domestic violence in India during COVID-19: A Routine activity approach. Asian Journal of Criminology, 16 (1). pp. 19-35. ISSN 18710131

[thumbnail of AJC 2021.pdf]
Preview
Text
AJC 2021.pdf - Published Version
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial.

Download (414kB) | Preview

Abstract

Domestic violence, a prevalent problem in India, saw an increase during the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This article explores the factors associated with an increase in domestic violence incidents during COVID-19 by applying routine activity theory (RAT) framework. Data were drawn from the incidents of domestic violence reported in newspapers. Data was analyzed using content analysis and three major themes, i.e., three principle components of RAT—motivated offender, suitable target, and absence of capable guardian—were drawn. Findings reveal that sources of motivation in domestic violence perpetrators during the lockdown were alcohol and unemployment. The symbolic value that perpetrators associated with women, lower inertia, visibility, and accessibility to the perpetrators made women suitable targets of domestic violence. Lastly, shortage of police force and travel restrictions on formal and informal sources resulted in the absence of capable guardians. We conclude that changes in the routine activities of people during the COVID-19 lockdown provided more opportunities to the perpetrators of domestic violence.

Item Type: Article
Keywords: Domestic Violence | India | COVID-19 | Lockdown | Routine activity theory
Subjects: Social Sciences and humanities > Social Sciences > Gender Studies
Social Sciences and humanities > Social Sciences > Health (Social sciences)
JGU School/Centre: Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences
Depositing User: Amees Mohammad
Date Deposited: 26 Nov 2021 09:07
Last Modified: 12 Jan 2022 17:32
Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11417-020-09340-1
URI: https://pure.jgu.edu.in/id/eprint/70

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

Actions (login required)

View Item
View Item