Factors associated with domestic violence among women aged 15-49 years in Uganda

Abstract

This study investigates the factors associated with domestic violence among women aged 15-49 years in Uganda, utilizing secondary data from the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2016. The primary objectives were to examine the influence of women's employment status, marital status, religious affiliation, age group, region, type of residence, and education level on the prevalence of domestic violence. A cross-sectional design and logistic regression analysis were employed to explore these relationships. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize baseline characteristics, while logistic regression models assessed the strength and significance of associations between the selected variables and domestic violence. The study revealed that 36.13% of women reported experiencing some form of domestic violence. Key findings from the logistic regression analysis indicated that unemployed women had higher odds of experiencing domestic violence compared to employed women (OR=1.20, 95% CI: 0.97-1.48, p=0.092). Divorced women (OR=3.32, 95% CI: 1.41-7.79, p=0.006) and separated women (OR=2.92, 95% CI: 2.12-4.04, p<0.001) also faced significantly higher odds of experiencing domestic violence. Catholic women had higher odds of experiencing domestic violence compared to Anglican women (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.18-1.72, p<0.001). Women aged 35-39 had higher odds (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.00-2.02, p=0.051) of experiencing domestic violence compared to those aged 50-54. Significant regional differences were observed, with regions such as Bukedi (OR=0.23, 95% CI: 0.14-0.37, p<0.001) and Kampala (OR=0.44, 95% CI: 0.25-0.76, p=0.003) showing lower odds of domestic violence compared to Teso. Urban residents had higher odds of experiencing domestic violence compared to rural residents (OR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.00-1.64, p=0.047). Based on these findings, the study recommends the implementation of economic empowerment programs to reduce women's financial dependence and vulnerability. Support systems for divorced and separated women should be strengthened to ensure their safety and well-being. Engagement with religious institutions to promote gender equality and respect within communities is crucial. Age specific interventions for middle-aged women and region-specific policies tailored to the unique needs of different areas should be developed. Additionally, urban-focused initiatives that address the specific challenges of urban living are necessary. Comprehensive educational programs that promote gender equality and healthy relationships from an early age should also be implemented to combat domestic violence effectively.