DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST MARRIED WOMEN IN URBAN SRI LANKA, SOCIO-CULTURAL DETERMINANTS AND SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTION

Abstract

Domestic Violence (DV), particularly intimate partner violence (IPV) against women, is still a widespread and complex issue, especially in urban settings where social development, economic constraints, and changing gender dynamics are commonplace. The prevalence, trends, and sociocultural variables of intimate partner violence (IPV) among married women in urban Sri Lanka are examined in this desk review, which also examines the institutional and individual elements that support its persistence. Particular focus is given to the role of social work practice in tackling IPV through interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The review highlights major obstacles to reporting and seeking help, including stigma, financial dependency, and systemic shortcomings, while emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive, evidence-based, and survivor-focused approaches. The paper concludes by offering recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of social work interventions and policy frameworks in preventing and addressing IPV in urban environments.