Abstract:
This dissertation critically evaluates the reporting habits of Indo-Fijian immigrant women as victims of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). The key types of abuse covered include verbal, physical and emotional abuse. By examining previous literature on IPV in NZ, migrant communities and IndoFijian communities I identify a need for more context and representation of Indo-Fijian victims. I use a mixed methods approach of quantitative and qualitative data analysis: (1) a quantitative analysis of survey data (2) a qualitative analysis of interview data. Both methods utilize data from participant surveys and interviews exploring areas relevant to IPV: reporting habits, violence in relationships, violence in homes and attitudes surrounding IPV in the Indo-Fijian community-based in New Zealand. This dissertation argues that there is a normalization of practices in Indo-Fijian communities that create and maintain IPV in the community. Hiding IPV victimization is seen as the victims’ role, the offender is not held accountable, children normalize abusive behaviors from the way they are disciplined. In addition, victim blaming causes a paradox for victims who stay and those who leave an abusive relationship. Lastly, the sharing of IPV experiences as gossip prevent victims from reporting their victimization as a protective measure and to prevent tarnishing the family’s honor. This acts a glue holding together and policing the hierarchies that maintain IPV. In its conclusion, I argue that the data shows a narrative where all these factors come together to allow victimization and under-reporting of IPV in the home, the community which continues intergenerationally. Possible solutions discussed include more safe spaces to report, share and educate individuals on IPV experiences.
