(In)visibility of violence against women in mental health1

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the perception, beliefs and knowledge of mental health professionals about violence against women and public policies related to this issue. To accomplish this objective, 12 interviews were carried out. Based on data analysis, five themes were proposed: “perception of demands presented by women and men”, “experience in providing care to women victims of violence”, “link between violence and mental health”, “knowledge about the Maria da Penha Law and women-centered public policies”, “(Lack of) knowledge about the compulsory notification of violence against women”. Professionals had difficulties dealing with these themes, especially related to addressing and notifying violence. Their practices are based on their intuition rather than on theoretical and practical knowledge.