FACTORS INFLUENCING PERCEPTIONS ABOUT INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE AMONG SAUDI FEMALE STUDENTS IN UNITED STATESMAN

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a concerning issue, as emphasized by the World Health Organization who estimates that one in three women are at risk of IPV . This research focuses on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a country that grapples with levels of domestic violence. Unfortunately, this violence often starts at ages 13 to 15 years old due to ingrained societal norms. The aim of this study is to address a gap in the gender studies literature by examining the power dynamics between gender roles within the Saudi context. It explores the parts played by both non-governmental organizations such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the National Family Safety Program (NFSP), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and the National Saudi Commission for Childhood (NSCC) in dealing with IPVs harmful effects. This study provides a nuanced understanding of how religion, gender, and IPV interact with each other while shedding light on challenges faced in upholding rights within Muslim majority countries. Additionally, it evaluates how initiatives, like the King Abdullah Scholarship Program contributes to reducing gender- based violence through empowering leaders and examines advancements made in Saudi Arabia and the United States to safeguard women’s rights. To comprehend the perception and effects of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in society, frameworks such as defensive attribution theory, feminist approach theory, and the ambivalent sexism were utilized. These theories provide insights into how patriarchal norms ingrained in the culture contribute to both hostile and benevolent sexism.