Empowerment through technology: domestic violence acceptance among Iraqi women in an intersectional context

Abstract

Background: Acceptance of domestic violence against women refers to the belief that violence can be justified. Women’s attitudes towards domestic violence shape societal acceptance, victimization, disclosure, and help-seeking behaviors. This study explored the role of gender, socio-economic status, regional disparities, and empowerment in domestic violence acceptance among Iraqi women. Methods: Using data from the 2018 Iraq Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 6) with 19,443 married Iraqi women, this cross-sectional study employed logistic regression analyses to investigate individual, interpersonal, community, and societal determinants of domestic violence acceptance. Results: 48.4% of married Iraqi women accepted domestic violence, with higher acceptance in South/Central regions (62–73%). Factors associated with higher acceptance included lower education (aOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.35–0.45 for upper secondary education compared to preprimary or non), functional difficulties (aOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.40–1.83), marriage to blood-related spouses (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.36–1.54), and rural residence (aOR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.15–1.33). Conversely, owning a mobile phone (aOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.44–0.50) and using a computer/tablet (aOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.30–0.38) were associated with lower acceptance. Conclusion: These findings, given the lack of research on domestic violence among Iraqi women, highlight the urgent need for policy discussions supporting Sustainable Development Goals on gender equity and well-being. Enhanced access to technology could help women have better access to resources, support systems, and information, which would lower acceptance for domestic violence.