Exploration Why Women Stayed in Domestic Violence: Police Office Malaysia (PDRM) Perspective.

Exploration Why Women Stayed in Domestic Violence: Police Office Malaysia (PDRM) Perspective.

Norhayati Mohd Noor¹, Zulkifle Malek²

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia¹, Ministry of Education Malaysia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2024.11150060P

Received: 16 November 2024; Accepted: 20 November 2024; Published: 21 December 2024

ABSTRACT

Domestic violence is a gender-related issue that consistently garners the attention of security authorities in Malaysia. The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) serves as the frontline agency for receiving and handling cases of domestic violence under the 1994 Domestic Violence Act (amended in 2012). To date, empirical research exploring the factors that lead women to remain in the cycle of domestic violence is still limited, despite the indirect negative impact on children. The aim of this study is to delve deeper into the factors that motivate women to continue living in situations of domestic violence. A qualitative research approach using a case study design was employed, involving eight investigation officers (IOs) from State and District Police Departments in Kelantan, Sarawak, Sabah, Kuala Lumpur, Kedah, Selangor, and Bukit Aman. The study participants were interviewed face-to-face in a semi-structured format, and the interview data was transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis with NVivo 12 Plus software. Six themes emerged: (i) love to the husband, (ii) woman (DV) lack of income, (iii) marital status, (iv) fear of losing custody of children, (v) sharing with the husband in business, and (vi) weak family support systems. Recommendations for empowerment activities to raise women’s awareness and support them in leaving domestic violence situations are also discussed in this article.

Keyword: Violence Against Women, Domestic Violence, Women’s Well-being

INTRODUCTION

The phenomenon of women remaining in abusive relationships is a complex issue influenced by a multitude of factors, including socioeconomic status, cultural norms, psychological dynamics, and individual circumstances. Understanding why women continue to live with spouses who perpetrate domestic violence requires a multi-faceted approach that considers these interrelated factors. Firstly, socioeconomic status plays a critical role in the dynamics of domestic violence. Women with lower economic resources often find themselves trapped in abusive relationships due to financial dependence on their partners. Research indicates that economic constraints can limit women’s options for leaving abusive situations, as they may lack the financial means to support themselves and their children independently (Vyas & Heise, 2016; Vyas & Mbwambo, 2017).

Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue globally, with law enforcement agencies playing a critical role in addressing and mitigating its effects. The effectiveness of police responses to domestic violence incidents is often scrutinized, as these responses can significantly influence victims’ willingness to report abuse and seek help. Research indicates that police officers’ interactions with victims can either empower them or perpetuate their victimization, depending on the nature of the response provided (AV, 2015; Retief & Green, 2015; Leung, 2013). In many jurisdictions, the police are the first point of contact for victims of domestic violence. Their initial response can set the tone for the victim’s future interactions with the criminal justice system. Studies have shown that appropriate police action following a domestic violence incident can signal a zero-tolerance stance towards such violence, thereby empowering victims to recognize their experiences as criminal acts (AV, 2015; Retief & Green, 2015).

The implementation of mandatory arrest policies in the United States during the 1980s was a significant shift in law enforcement’s approach to domestic violence. These policies require officers to arrest individuals when there is evidence of injury, regardless of the victim’s wishes (Cuomo, 2020). While these policies were intended to enhance victim protection and deter future violence, their effectiveness has been debated. Some studies suggest that mandatory arrest can lead to increased reporting of domestic violence incidents, while others indicate that it may not significantly reduce recidivism rates among offenders (Tatum & Pence, 2015; Sechrist & Weil, 2017). The complexity of domestic violence cases necessitates a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing arrest decisions, including the presence of children, the severity of the violence, and the relationship dynamics between the victim and the perpetrator (Foster et al., 2012). Training for law enforcement personnel is crucial in improving responses to domestic violence. Research has shown that many officers lack adequate training to recognize and respond to non-fatal strangulation, a common and dangerous form of abuse in domestic violence situations (Reckdenwald et al., 2019; Pritchard et al., 2015).

In many cases, women may perceive that staying in the relationship, despite the violence, is a more viable option than facing the uncertainties of single parenthood or homelessness. This economic dependency is compounded by societal norms that reinforce traditional gender roles, where women are expected to prioritize family stability over personal safety (Roozbahani et al., 2023). Cultural and social norms also significantly influence women’s decisions to remain in abusive relationships. In many societies, there exists a prevailing acceptance of domestic violence, often justified by traditional beliefs that condone male authority and female submissiveness (Lahav, 2022; Riley et al., 2010). Women may internalize these norms, leading to a sense of shame or stigma associated with seeking help or leaving their partners. Studies have shown that women who accept or justify domestic violence are more likely to remain in abusive relationships, as they may view their situation as a normal aspect of marital life (Semahegn & Mengistie, 2015; Zannettino, 2012).

This normalization of violence can create a cycle where women feel powerless to change their circumstances, further entrenching them in abusive environments. Psychological factors, including trauma bonding and hyper-sensitivity to the perpetrator, also contribute to the complexity of this issue. Women who have experienced prolonged exposure to violence may develop a psychological attachment to their abuser, often referred to as trauma bonding (Tlapek, 2014). This bond can create a powerful emotional barrier to leaving, as the victim may feel a sense of loyalty or love for the abuser, despite the harm inflicted. Furthermore, women may become hyper-sensitive to their partner’s moods and behaviors, leading them to rationalize or minimize the abuse in hopes of maintaining peace within the household (Abu-Elenin et al., 2022). This psychological entrapment can be exacerbated by mental health issues stemming from the abuse, such as depression and anxiety, which can further diminish a woman’s capacity to seek help or envision a life outside of the abusive relationship (Adekeye et al., 2011; Jati et al., 2019). Additionally, the presence of children can complicate the decision-making process for women in abusive relationships. Many women may choose to stay in such situations out of concern for their children’s welfare, fearing that leaving might disrupt their children’s lives or expose them to further risks (Ram et al., 2019).

The desire to maintain a family unit, even in the face of violence, can lead women to endure abuse rather than seek separation. This is particularly evident in communities where divorce is stigmatized or where women fear losing custody of their children (Thakare et al., 2018). Access to support services and resources also plays a crucial role in women’s ability to leave abusive relationships. In many regions, women may lack access to shelters, legal assistance, or counseling services that could facilitate their departure from an abusive partner (Gurning et al., 2020; Shah, 2013). Additionally, societal stigma surrounding domestic violence can deter women from seeking help, as they may fear judgment or disbelief from family, friends, or authorities. The lack of a supportive network can leave women feeling isolated and trapped, further perpetuating their situation. Moreover, the impact of external stressors, such as economic downturns or public health crises, can exacerbate domestic violence and influence women’s decisions to remain with their partners.

Research indicates that the male-dominated culture within many police departments can perpetuate biases and stereotypes that negatively impact victims, particularly women (Leung, 2013; Jennings et al., 2020). Addressing these cultural issues through diversity training and promoting gender equity within law enforcement can help create a more supportive environment for victims seeking assistance. Moreover, the integration of technology in law enforcement practices can enhance the response to domestic violence. For instance, the use of virtual reality training modules for police officers can provide immersive experiences that improve their understanding of victims’ perspectives and the complexities of domestic violence situations (Jelke et al., 2022). Such innovative approaches can lead to more empathetic and informed responses from officers, ultimately benefiting victims and the broader community. In conclusion, the role of law enforcement in addressing domestic violence is multifaceted and requires a comprehensive approach that includes training, policy reform, community collaboration, and cultural change within police departments.. The ongoing evaluation of these strategies is essential to ensure that they meet the needs of victims and contribute to a safer society.

Implications of leaving an abusive relationship can be particularly severe for women with children, as they may worry about their ability to provide for their family without the support of their partner.  Additionally, the emotional investment that women have in their relationships can complicate their decision-making processes. Many women report feelings of love and attachment to their partners, despite the abuse (Raghavendra et al., 2019; Bruton & Tyson, 2017). This emotional bond can lead women to hope for change and improvement in their relationships, which can perpetuate their stay in an abusive environment. The cycle of abuse often includes periods of reconciliation and affection, which can create a confusing dynamic for the victim, making it difficult for them to leave (Meyer, 2012; Taherkhani et al., 2019). The fear of disrupting their children’s lives or exposing them to further trauma can lead women to prioritize their children’s perceived needs over their own safety and well-being (Fanslow & Robinson, 2009).  Furthermore, the lack of accessible support systems can hinder women’s ability to leave abusive relationships. Many women do not seek help due to a lack of awareness about available resources or fear of not being believed or supported (Childress et al., 2017; Taherkhani et al., 2017).

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems that can empower women to leave abusive relationships. Addressing the multifaceted nature of domestic violence requires a holistic approach that considers the unique circumstances and challenges faced by each individual woman. By fostering awareness, providing resources, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate abuse, we can begin to create an environment where women feel safe and supported in making the decision to leave. This psychological aspects influencing why women remain in domestic violence situations are intricate and deeply rooted in various emotional, cognitive, and social factors. Understanding these psychological dimensions is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems. One of the primary psychological factors is the phenomenon of learned helplessness, which often manifests in women who have experienced prolonged abuse. This condition leads to a belief that they have no control over their circumstances, resulting in a sense of powerlessness that can perpetuate their stay in abusive relationships (Avdibegović et al., 2017; Karakurt et al., 2014). Research indicates that women who experience domestic violence may internalize the abuse, leading to diminished self-esteem and self-worth, which further complicates their ability to leave (Avdibegović et al., 2017; Karakurt et al., 2014).

Moreover, the socialization of women into traditional gender roles can significantly influence their psychological responses to domestic violence. Many women are raised with the belief that they should prioritize family unity and maintain their relationships at all costs, even in the face of abuse (Mahdy, 2023). This cultural conditioning can lead to feelings of guilt and shame when contemplating leaving an abusive partner, as they may perceive themselves as failures for not being able to “make it work.” The internalization of these societal expectations can create a powerful psychological barrier that prevents women from seeking help or leaving their abusers (Mahdy, This maternal instinct, while understandable, can lead to a cycle of rationalization where women convince themselves that enduring the abuse is in the best interest of their children. The psychological burden of this decision can be immense, often leading to feelings of guilt and inadequacy, which further entrench them in their abusive situations (Nadda et al., 2018).

The impact of domestic violence on mental health is profound, with many women experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD as a result of their experiences (Karakurt et al., 2014; Adesina et al., 2011). These mental health challenges can create a vicious cycle, where the psychological toll of the abuse makes it increasingly difficult for women to envision a life outside of the relationship. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the emotional and psychological scars left by the abuse, can lead to a state of inertia where leaving feels impossible (Karakurt et al., 2014; Adesina et al., 2011). Furthermore, women may fear that their mental health struggles will be dismissed or misunderstood by others, leading to further isolation and a reluctance to seek help (Adesina et al., 2011).  In summary, the psychological aspects influencing why women stay in domestic violence situations are multifaceted and deeply intertwined with emotional, cognitive, and social factors. The interplay of learned helplessness, emotional intelligence, societal expectations, maternal instincts, and mental health challenges creates a complex web that can trap women in abusive relationships. Understanding these psychological dimensions is essential for developing effective support systems and interventions that empower women to break free from the cycle of violence.

The decision of women to remain in abusive relationships, particularly when they lack financial independence, is influenced by a complex interplay of psychological, social, and economic factors. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems. One of the primary reasons women stay in abusive relationships despite the presence of violence is the fear of economic instability. Many women who experience domestic violence are financially dependent on their partners, which creates a significant barrier to leaving (Awwad et al., 2014; Antai et al., 2014). This economic dependence can lead to a sense of helplessness, as women may feel that they lack the resources necessary to support themselves and their children outside of the relationship (Awwad et al., 2014; Antai et al., 2014).  Therefore, a study exploring why women find it difficult to escape domestic violence needs to be conducted to find interventions that can help them leave domestic violence.

METHODOLOGY

This research adopts a qualitative approach with a case study design. Eight Investigating Officers (IOs) from eight Police Headquarters (PDRM) in various states, district police headquarters, Bukit Aman Police Headquarters, and the Police Training Centre were selected through purposive sampling. All study participants voluntarily agreed to participate in in-depth interviews, conducted in two rounds, with each round lasting between 50 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the duration of experience as an IO and the number of domestic violence cases they have managed and handled.

Data Colletion

Eight investigating officers (IOs) voluntarily participated in this study, engaging in in-depth interviews conducted by three researchers. The selection of study participants was done using purposive sampling. These eight investigating officers willingly took part in the study, and consent forms were issued to them to confirm their involvement in this research.The study participants were asked semi-structured open-ended questions about their experiences and perceptions in managing and handling domestic violence (DV) cases, as previously explained. Follow-up questions, probes, and suggestions were used to examine any experiences related to violence. Ethical confidentiality procedures were also implemented throughout the interview process and the data collection phases to ensure the safety of the study participants and the women involved in domestic violence cases. The in-depth interviews were recorded using an MP3 audio recorder, and all interview recordings were transcribed verbatim for data analysis purposes.

Data Analysis

All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim in Malay. The data was coded, and thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo Plus 12 qualitative software. The data was coded and analyzed to identify deductive and inductive themes. The data was read repeatedly to extract meaning in forming themes and sub-themes, with transcript coding conducted by each researcher through expert peer review. Conflicting and minority themes were given careful attention. Double-coding of certain transcripts by researchers provided validation for emerging codes. In this study, themes emerged from both the research questions and the data itself. All researchers reached a consensus on the resulting themes and sub-themes to ensure validation and credibility checks on the themes and data interpretations.

FINDING

Six themes emerged: (i) Felling love to husband, (ii) woman (DV) lack of income, (iii) marital status, (iv) fear of losing custody of children, (v) sharing with the husband in business, and (vi) weak of family support systems.

Felling love to husband

The feeling of love towards husbands is a phrase commonly expressed by all investigating officers involved in cases of violence against women, especially domestic violence cases. According to investigating officers (IO), almost 90% of cases where women experience domestic violence end up with the women retracting or cancelling their reports against their husbands, who are the perpetrators of the violence. IO2, IO3, IO4, IO5, and IO7 have shared that this retraction and cancellation of reports are largely due to the women’s deep and intense love for their husbands. They explain that legal action can only be effectively pursued when the woman, or wife, demonstrates a strong resolve particularly when she can no longer bear the pain caused by domestic violence.

“But not everyone wants to go ahead with an investigation. Those who do usually feel they really can’t tolerate their husbands any longer.”

Indeep interview/IO2

The feeling of affection for their husbands is reinforced when women experience fear of losing their husbands and the stigma of being seen as widows or divorcees in the eyes of society. This phenomenon has led many women to remain trapped in the cycle of domestic violence. She further advised and provided support, encouraging women not to withdraw or cancel their reports to ensure that the husband or perpetrator is not freed from charges. According to IO1, IO4, IO6, and IO8, the worry and anxiety that wives (victims of domestic violence) find difficult to overcome lead to many cases recurring, sometimes resulting in severe injuries and, in the worst cases, even death.

Because of this, they are willing to endure being hit, scolded, and verbally abused every day simply because they still want to rely on their husbands.

Indeep interview/IO8

Lack Of income

The inability to have financial independence has caused many women to continue living in cycles of domestic violence, often for periods extending over a decade. In this study, according to investigative officers, some women have endured domestic abuse for more than 12 years, some starting with no children and eventually having three or more. According to IO4 and IO8, there are women who experienced abuse in their first marriage and had five children, then remarried and had two more children, and later entered a third marriage without having any additional children. Although they may not suffer from serious physical injuries due to domestic violence, living in such an environment for so long has disrupted the well-being of their children. As reported by IO8, some women admit they feel they cannot live happily without a man (a husband) by their side to feel complete as a wife. In the minds of these women, the presence of a husband despite being the source of violence provides a sense of companionship.

The primary reason behind their frequent arguments is often related to the man being the primary breadwinner. They rely heavily on him. If, for example, we detain their husband—even in cases involving theft or other crimes—the whole family shows up to visit him in detention. They explain that the children want to see their father, or are unwell. These women feel completely helpless if their husband is taken away. Indeed, they will persistently seek his release until he is out of detention. That’s how it is.

Indeep interview/IO4

Marital status  

Women who are victims of domestic abuse are viewed in a very different way. The foundation of a wife’s happiness in her marriage is her marriage. As a married woman, divorce is disastrous for women. Therefore, according to IO6, what motivates women to make self-sacrificing sacrifices and put up with emotional, mental, and bodily suffering as long as they stay married and continue to feel proud of having a husband in the eyes of society? In the case she handled, IO6 claims that she frequently gets:

Because occasionally the complainant’s wife has been experiencing this for a long time, you know. But she didn’t tell anyone. because she is sympathetic to the little ones. She also didn’t work after it. What would happen to the spouse if husband  were arrested, and would the kids be left fatherless?  When one thinks about these individuals, that is what comes to mind. Would you like to submit a report? Some have occurred repeatedly with no action taken. What took place? Fearful that anything else will occur. Housewives in particular. The original housewife.

Indeep interview/IO6

Fear of losing custody of children

A mother’s love endures to the heavens, even with death at her doorstep. According to the experiences of investigative officers in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), nearly 90% of women experience emotional distress from feelings of sadness, anxiety, and worry for their children’s safety. This has led some mothers to endure severe physical abuse, allowing their bodies to be beaten and seriously injured by husbands or perpetrators of domestic violence. One investigation officer reported that there are mothers who often hold their children tightly each time their husbands beat them.

In cases where the husband is a drug addict, he regularly assaults his wife to demand money, and if she refuses, he beats their children until she gives in. On days when there is no money, the mother has even resorted to embracing her children to shield them from the blows. In one instance, this resulted in the mother fainting.

Indeep interview/IO5

Sharing with the husband in business

Business partnerships between husband and wife represent a form of shared sustenance within marriage and family life, commonly established in the early stages of marriage. Often, women are the ones who work diligently to grow the business, ensuring it generates income to support the family, especially for the children. According to IO6, many women who work hard ultimately find themselves in domestic violence situations, forced to endure it in order to secure financial resources to raise their children. IO7 describes women with limited knowledge of their financial rights within the business, especially concerning funds for managing their children’s education. According to IO7:

“In the early years of marriage, we ran the business together. But when my husband became involved with another woman and wanted to marry her, he started beating me. I was afraid and endured the pain.”

Indeep interview/IO7

Weak of family support systems

Support systems are needed by women who experience domestic violence. Family support systems are support systems that can help women who suffer from domestic violence and are able to make the decision to leave a life of domestic violence. The experience of IO5 PDRM clearly illustrates that 100% of the women they receive and manage require a family support system so that they can escape domestic violence and have the self-confidence to start a new, more prosperous life.

I got a case where the mother and father abused their child. At that time, he had four children. The four little ones were nine months old. After that, the one who was a little over a year old was almost two years old. Then, the four-year-old. After that, the six-year-old, all of them were abused except for the little one who was nine months old and the one who was a little over a year old. Because this one is her child with her husband. The other two were really beaten because her child and husband used to be her parents, this couple abused her. That kid is really skinny, you can see his bones. Ha, just like we see that African kid, he’s really skinny and tall like this.

Indeep interview/IO5

Below was a table illustrating summurthe findings from interviews with eight IOs.

IO	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
Felling love to husband	√	√	√	√	√	√	√	√
Lack of income				√				√
Marital status	√			√		√
Fear of losing custody of children	√	√	√	√	√	√	√	√
Sharing with the husband in business	√						√
Weak of family support systems	√	√	√			√	√	√

DISCUSSION

Helping women exit from domestic violence situations requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the complex interplay of psychological, social, and economic factors that contribute to their circumstances. Legal support is another critical component in assisting women to exit domestic violence. Strengthening the legal framework surrounding domestic violence, such as the enforcement of restraining orders and the provision of legal aid, can provide women with the necessary tools to protect themselves (Pandey, 2016). However, the effectiveness of such laws often depends on the availability of supportive services, including shelters and counseling, which can help women navigate the legal system and provide emotional support during the process (Pandey, 2016; Khalili et al., 2020). Collaborative efforts between police departments and these organizations can lead to more effective interventions and support systems for victims (Messing et al., 2011). For instance, initiatives that involve training police officers in trauma-informed approaches can significantly improve the quality of interactions between law enforcement and victims, fostering a sense of safety and trust (Jelke et al., 2022). Such partnerships can also facilitate better resource allocation and ensure that victims receive comprehensive support throughout the legal process. In addition to training and policy reform, there is a pressing need for systemic changes within law enforcement agencies to address the cultural and structural barriers that hinder effective responses to domestic violence.

Effective interventions must be tailored to the individual needs of victims and can include empowerment programs, legal support, community resources, and healthcare interventions. In this study, an intervention program is needed to boost their confidence to escape the violence they are experiencing. This response synthesizes various studies and findings to outline strategies that can facilitate women’s exit from domestic violence. One of the most effective strategies for helping women escape domestic violence is through empowerment interventions. Research has shown that programs aimed at enhancing women’s agency and decision-making capabilities can significantly reduce their vulnerability to violence Krishnan et al. (2012)Rowan et al., 2015). For instance, Krishnan et al. Krishnan et al. (2012) highlight the importance of intergenerational empowerment interventions that not only focus on the immediate victims but also engage their children, thereby breaking the cycle of violence. These programs can be integrated into existing healthcare frameworks, allowing for broader reach and sustainability (Krishnan et al., 2012). Empowerment initiatives can also include skill-building workshops that teach women about their rights, financial literacy, and self-defense, which can enhance their confidence and ability to leave abusive relationships (Taghdisi et al., 2014; Kapiga et al., 2019).

Community resources play a pivotal role in supporting women in their exit from domestic violence. Establishing community support systems, such as shelters and support groups, can provide safe havens for women fleeing abusive situations (Trabold et al., 2018). Trabold et al. (Trabold et al., 2018) conducted a systematic review that emphasizes the importance of community-based interventions, which have been shown to improve outcomes for women experiencing intimate partner violence. These resources not only offer immediate safety but also facilitate access to long-term support services, including mental health counseling and job training programs, which are essential for rebuilding their lives (Kirk et al., 2017; Khalili et al., 2020). Healthcare interventions are also crucial in addressing the physical and psychological impacts of domestic violence. Regular screening for domestic violence in healthcare settings can help identify victims early and connect them with appropriate resources (McCauley et al., 2017; Alhusen et al., 2015). For instance, the Domestic Violence Enhanced Home Visitation Program (DOVE) has shown promise in reducing intimate partner violence among women receiving home visits from healthcare providers (Alhusen et al., 2015).

Such programs can provide a safe space for women to disclose their experiences and receive comprehensive support, including mental health services and referrals to legal aid (Khalili et al., 2020; Alhusen et al., 2015). Moreover, addressing the psychological aspects of domestic violence is vital for helping women exit abusive relationships. Many victims experience feelings of shame, guilt, and fear, which can hinder their ability to seek help (Avdibegović et al., 2017; Madhani et al., 2016). Providing trauma-informed care and counseling can help women process their experiences and develop coping strategies (Taaki, 2023; Shams et al., 2017). Programs that foster peer support, where women who have successfully exited abusive relationships mentor those still in crisis, can also be effective in providing hope and practical advice (Taaki, 2023; Taghdisi et al., 2014). Education plays a significant role in preventing domestic violence and empowering women. Educational interventions that raise awareness about domestic violence and its consequences can help women recognize abusive behaviors and seek help (Taghdisi et al., 2014; Semahegn & Mengistie, 2015). For example, programs that target young men and boys to challenge harmful norms and behaviors associated with masculinity can contribute to long-term cultural change and reduce the prevalence of domestic violence (Rowan et al., 2015; Kapiga et al., 2019).

Conversely, inadequate responses, such as failure to intervene or arrest perpetrators, can reinforce feelings of oppression and silence among victims, ultimately increasing their vulnerability (AV, 2015; Leung, 2013). This dichotomy highlights the importance of training and policy implementation within law enforcement agencies to ensure that officers are equipped to handle domestic violence cases effectively. Despite the existence of laws designed to protect victims, many reports of domestic violence are inadequately addressed by law enforcement. Research indicates that police officers often employ an incident-focused approach that limits their engagement with victims to the specifics of the physical abuse reported (Arnold & Slusser, 2015; Jennings et al., 2020). This narrow focus can lead to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the victim’s situation, potentially overlooking critical factors such as emotional and psychological abuse, which are equally damaging (Arnold & Slusser, 2015). Furthermore, the tendency of some officers to stereotype victims or interpret their motivations cynically can undermine trust in law enforcement and discourage victims from seeking help (Leung, 2013; Jennings et al., 2020).

Additionally, educating women about their rights and available resources can empower them to take action against their abusers (Rowan et al., 2015; Taghdisi et al., 2014). This gap in knowledge can result in missed opportunities for intervention and support for victims. Furthermore, comprehensive training programs that address the psychological and emotional aspects of domestic violence can enhance officers’ ability to engage effectively with victims and provide appropriate referrals to support services (Retief & Green, 2015; Tylchyk, 2023; Messing et al., 2011). The role of community-based organizations and advocacy groups is also vital in shaping law enforcement responses to domestic violence. In conclusion, helping women exit from domestic violence requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach that encompasses empowerment, legal support, community resources, healthcare interventions, and education. By addressing the multifaceted nature of domestic violence and providing tailored support, we can create pathways for women to reclaim their lives and break free from the cycle of abuse. Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, legal advocates, community organizations, and policymakers are essential to ensure that women have access to the resources and support they need to escape domestic violence effectively.

Finaly according this research similar research by Stephens and Eaton (2020) found that young adult Indian women in the current study were unsupportive of DV and believed it should be stopped. They recognized the importance of reporting incidents they experience or witnessed as one approach to addressing DV and discussed the meanings of these in this study. Informal networks were cited as the first place these women would be willing to report DV, including parents and extended family. This research support finding Dziewa and Glowacz (2022) “Getting out from Intimate Partner Violence: Dynamics and Processes. A Qualitative Analysis of Female and Male Victims’ Narratives”. They find many woman as victim domestic violence point to the lack of information on what to do before, during and after violence and how to deal with it, which can slow down the getting out from violence process. Thus, wider knowledge of the possibilities and sup- port services available to them could play a specific role in this process. It is not only a question of being informed about IPV. It is necessary to be able to assess communication gaps and to give people, who may one day be part of a care system, tools to understand

CONCLUSION

Six themes emerged from the findings of the domestic violence study conducted from the viewpoint of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the security agency’s investigating officer (IO), which have made it difficult or frequently impossible for women to decide to leave a life of domestic violence. There are six themes that are also six aspects that contribute to women’s continued exposure to domestic abuse. This study has confirmed earlier findings that women are still subjected to domestic abuse, which is influenced by a complex web of psychological, economic, and cultural factors. Even at the elementary school level, efforts are being made to increase awareness and encourage brave choices to flee domestic abuse as an early intervention program for women and girls. This is due to the fact that the Malaysian police have just recently begun implementing the awareness program. There are cops who have been working on cases for little more than three years because the police researchers’ study was incomplete and only included eight participants.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The authors would like to express their gratitude to the GenuisPintar Center, National University of Malaysia for their support in the publication of this article.

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