General practitioners & violence intervention: why not leave well alone?: a qualitative study

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of General Practitioner (GP) violence intervention, through six women's experiences. The methodology and analysis of this research uses a feminist framework. This framework assumes that the underlying dynamic of violence is one of power and control. The research investigates the impact of intervention on women, children and perpetrators, through women's recollections. Participation by six women was facilitated by a GP who practices routine screening for violence. Results suggest that GPs who practice violence intervention provide support which empowers women to make decisions about life-changes, to stop the violence. Findings show that GPs are in a front-line position to have significant impact on the health and well-being of women by communicating a zero tolerance of violence.