A experiência de mulheres em relacionamentos abusivos: violências, desafios e superações

Abstract

This qualitative study, based on a phenomenological-existential approach, aimed to understand the experiences of women who have experienced abusive relationships, emphasizing the meanings attributed to violence, the factors associated with remaining in the relationship, and the processes of separation. Six adult women who had experienced violence perpetrated by intimate partners participated in the study. Data were produced through semi-structured interviews and analyzed according to phenomenological hermeneutics. The results showed that socialization processes marked by gender inequalities, the normalization of violence, silencing, lack of support, and violent family models contributed to participants’ vulnerability to abusive relationships. The narratives revealed different forms of violence, especially psychological, physical, and sexual violence, as well as control, manipulation, isolation, and emotional dependency, generating significant impacts on women’s autonomy and mental health. Barriers to ending the relationship were also identified, such as fear, hope for the aggressor’s change, and fragile support networks. Conversely, access to information, strengthening of support networks, gender violence awareness, and access to specialized services emerged as factors that promoted emancipation. It is concluded that violence against women constitutes a structural phenomenon, and its understanding from women’s own experiences contributes to strengthening public policies, protection networks, and more qualified support practices.