The Prevalence of Domestic Violence Experienced by Women Survivors in Selected Safe Shelters in Nairobi County

Abstract

Domestic violence remains a significant public health and human rights concern globally, with women bearing the greatest burden of physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse. This study examined the prevalence of domestic violence experienced by women survivors residing in selected safe shelters in Nairobi County, Kenya. Guided by Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, the study employed a mixed-methods research approach involving women survivors in selected safe shelters. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings revealed a high prevalence of domestic violence, with psychological violence emerging as the most common form, followed by physical, economic, and sexual abuse. The study established that domestic violence is sustained by economic dependency, patriarchal norms, and limited access to support systems. The findings further indicate that repeated exposure to violence negatively affects survivors' emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, and social functioning. The study concludes that domestic violence among women in Nairobi County remains pervasive and multidimensional, requiring coordinated interventions involving legal protection, psychosocial support, economic empowerment, and community sensitization. The paper recommends strengthening shelter services, enhancing public awareness, and promoting gender-transformative approaches to reduce violence against women.