Isolation of women in situation of violence by intimate partner: a social network condition

Abstract

Introduction: Isolation is a form of violence in which the intimate partner seeks to weaken the woman's support network, distancing her from social interaction, prohibiting her to relate to family and friends. Objective: To analyze the social isolation of women in situation of violence by their intimate partner. Methods: Qualitative and analytical research held at the Specialized Center for Assistance to Women in Rio de Janeiro-Brazil, with twenty women. Individual interviews and content analysis were used. Results: Social isolation occurred due to the restriction of freedom by the partner. Conclusion: Women showed difficulty to express their needs, sought the Health Units presenting symptoms consequent to the experienced violence. They rarely revealed their problem, leaving to professionals the practice and ability to an attentive listening and a holistic look to identify the situation, providing the necessary help and support to their social networks.