Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects communities worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries and socioeconomic statuses. However, research has shown that rural communities are disproportionately affected, with reports of intimate partner violence often being more severe and ongoing compared to urban areas.

Source: cdn2.psychologytoday.com

Behind the Scenes of Seclusion

Studies conducted by Susanne J. M. Strand and Jennifer E. Storey in 2019 revealed a disturbing trend in rural communities. The researchers analyzed data from Swedish police records between 2010 and 2014 and found that reports of partner violence severity, risk factors, and their relationship to risk judgments were all linked to rurality. In other words, the more remote an area, the higher the risk of severe and ongoing domestic abuse.

The study also highlighted the prevalence of risk factors in rural areas, including attitudes more tolerant of partner violence, which often stem from patriarchal ideology and support traditional gender roles. Additionally, victim blaming and limited access to resources, such as transportation and substance abuse treatment, further exacerbate the problem.

Strand and Storey’s research found that reports of intimate partner violence were higher in remote and rural areas than in urban areas. Furthermore, victims in these areas experienced violence for longer periods of time, which can be attributed to the lack of access to community services, shelters, and healthcare.

Bringing Help to Remote Communities

When a victim in a remote area musters the courage to call for help, response speed matters. Police officers in less populated areas should act fast, even when law enforcement caseloads prevent immediate investigation. Having a safe place to stay allows for safe reporting, even with delayed investigation.

Heightened awareness sparks action. Understanding remote community dynamics can facilitate detection, prosecution, and ideally, prevention. By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by rural communities, we can work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for all victims of domestic violence.

References:

[i] Strand, Susanne J. M., and Jennifer E. Storey. “Intimate Partner Violence in Urban, Rural, and Remote Areas: An Investigation of Offense Severity and Risk Factors.” Violence Against Women 25, no. 2 (2019): 188–207.

Key Findings

• Rural communities experience higher rates of intimate partner violence compared to urban areas.
• Reports of partner violence severity and risk factors are linked to rurality.
• Limited access to resources, such as transportation and substance abuse treatment, exacerbates the problem.
• Victims in remote areas experience violence for longer periods of time due to lack of access to community services and shelters.
• Police officers in less populated areas should act fast in response to reports of domestic violence.

By understanding the unique challenges faced by rural communities, we can work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for all victims of domestic violence.