The lived experience of being battered and pregnant

Abstract

Domestic violence occurs in many forms often beginning or escalating during a woman's pregnancy. The experience of being battered and pregnant was studied using the qualitative research approach of phenomenology. The researcher interviewed three women who were English-speaking, age 18 or older, and who had been involved in a relationship of battering while pregnant. The research question was: "What is the lived experience of being battered and pregnantT These interviews generated narrative data regarding their lived experience. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi's steps of phenomenoiogical research~ with Haase's analysis modifications. The theme categories that emerged were: In the Beginning, Signs and Symptoms of Impending Doom~ The Dark Side of the Relationship-The Abusive Period, The Mixed Signals from Family Members and Community Systems, and In Pursuit of a New Life. 'The essential structure of this lived experience indicated that this chapter of life was one of entrapment. The battered pregnant woman endures various degrees of mental and physical abuse that continue until she is able to leave her abusive partner. Nursing implications include direct routine screening for domestic violence followed by safety planning, appropriate community referrals, and the facilitation of recovery.