Assessing the Determinants Which Lead to Women Stay in Abusive Marriages: A Case Study of Matero Compound Township

This study aimed to assess the determinants that lead women to remain in abusive marriages, focusing on the Matero Compound Township. The research objectives included investigating determinants that influence these decisions, investigating family, and community, support systems, and examining the role of economic dependency and psychological impacts on decision-making to stay in abusive marriages. A descriptive research design was employed, with a target population of 200 married women from the Matero Township. A sample size of 66 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using excel, with findings presented in frequency tables and pie charts. The research highlights alarming findings regarding abuse in marriages, with 92% of married women reporting experiences of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, emphasizing a widespread issue. Emotional abuse is most common, affecting 62.1% of respondents. Determinants for remaining in abusive marriages include financial fears (62%), familial influence (62%), and societal pressures. Family support significantly impacts decisions, as 86% value family approval in marital choices. Additionally, 92% reported societal stigma against divorce as a key deterrent. Emotional distress from leaving abusive relationships was a concern for 92%, indicating a strong fear of instability and uncertainty associated with separation.