Spousal violence in India: does risk of spousal violence higher among polygynous unions?

Abstract

This study aims to understand the risk of spousal violence in the context of polygyny in India. National Family Health Survey (2015–16) data has been used in this study. The study population consisted of women who answered the questions regarding spousal violence and the number of additional wives of their husbands. Chi-square significance test and multi-level logistic regression were used to establish the association between spousal violence and polygyny. Findings of the study suggested that women in polygyny marriages experienced higher spousal violence than women in monogamy unions. In particular, the likelihood of overall spousal violence was higher among polygyny marriages (39.9%; 95% CI = 38.5–41.4) than in monogamy marriages (32.6%; 95% CI = 32.3–33). Simultaneously, the likelihood of spousal violence was significantly high in polygyny marriages among Muslims compared to Hindus. Muslim women in polygyny unions (30.4%; 95% CI = 29.4–31.4) faced significantly higher spousal violence than monogamy unions (43.8%; 95% CI = 39.6–48). The study revealed regional variability in relationship between spousal violence and polygyny in India. In the south region, women in polygyny unions’ experienced higher spousal violence compared to other regions. The risk of spousal violence can be reduced by empowering women and launching a community-wide awareness campaign about legal options for spousal violence victims. Efforts in this direction may support India in meeting its long-term development goal of ending violence against women and girls by 2030.