Domestic violence and mental health: Study of Bali integrated service center for children and women empowerment

Although known as a paradise island, Bali has yet to be a paradise for Balinese women and children. Over the years, the number of domestic violence cases toward women and children remains high. Even more than ten years since... [ view full abstract ]

Although known as a paradise island, Bali has yet to be a paradise for Balinese women and children. Over the years, the number of domestic violence cases toward women and children remains high. Even more than ten years since the enactment of the Indonesia’s Law on the Elimination of Domestic Violence in 2004 has been established (Penghapusan Kekerasan Dalam Rumah Tangga, PKDRT). Domestic violence is a universal problem here, which can be experienced by all of people in Bali.

In 2015, there are 594 cases of domestic violence and child abuse toward women and children across Bali island, while every year more than two thousand divorces had been happened. Integrated Service Center for Children and Women Empowerment (P2TP2A) which is run under the auspices of the Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry and available in all of districts noted. As the prior research domestic violence is grouped to personality disorder, such as borderline personality disorder, in relationship with the previous child abuse. The aim of study is to analyze how far the relationship between their abusive behavior and mentally disorders. How severe the burden of their marriage influence to the romantic couple and make their behavior changed to be an abusive partner.

Victims of domestic violence sometimes cannot receive much support from their families and relatives to file lawsuits against their perpetrators. Regretfully, they were re-sued by the perpetrator and have to endure extremely long trial processes. Detention and prison frequently is not a deterrent effect to abusive person. While the stigma about mental illness is still so strong and deep in the heart of our society, make them shy, angry and indignity if they must referred to the psychologist or psychiatrist.