NCJ Number
140103
Date Published
1992
Length
121 pages
Annotation
A sample of 100 inmate respondents who had been involved in violence in their own families was interviewed in this study designed to examine the incidence, causes, and motives of family violence in contemporary Indian society.
Abstract
Three hypotheses were supported by the study findings: familial violence is the result of a widening gap between expectations and gratifications which result in frustration taking an outlet in violent actions; violence within the family is the result of maladjustment in interpersonal relationships within the family; and those who have experienced more physical punishment as children may resort to more physical violence as adults within their family. A few other facts also emerged: individuals in the 16 to 30 age group have committed more violent crimes than older persons. Violence and illiteracy were correlated significantly, and low income also was an important cause of violent behavior. The extent of violence was greater in the family of procreation than in the family of orientation. Various legal remedies are proposed such as strengthening existing laws, improving the efficiency of law enforcement agencies, and broadening the scope of functioning of family courts at the village, district, and city level. 1 figure, 19 tables, and 74 references