Abstract Book of the 3rd World Conference on Gender Equality
Year: 2025
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Domestic Violence in Cross-National Households in Japan: Examining Abuse Patterns, Victim Narratives, and Societal Awareness
Lukyantseva Polina A.
ABSTRACT:
This research explores the issue of DV and abuse in cross-national households in Japan. It analyzes various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, economic, and coercion. Violence against women and girls is a serious global issue, and the study aims to raise awareness and improve understanding of DV/abuse in cross-national households in Japan. The primary objective is to emphasize that DV is a worldwide issue affecting individuals from all backgrounds. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, interviews, and case studies, the study offers insights into the prevalence and types of DV in these households. It questions and opposes the idea that certain forms of abuse are common in specific nationalities, countries, or groups. Through the analysis of 83 participants, including 18 in-depth interviews, the study reveals that emotional and psychological abuse, economic control, and coercion are often more prevalent but less recognized than physical or sexual abuse. Various cases show that abuse and DV are processes where victims are not able to identify what is what and when it started. Yet, they can seek assistance or support. The majority of women in the study described experiences of financial control, reproductive coercion, and emotional mistreatment, often due to cultural misunderstandings or dependency on their partner’s income. This study also revealed that women are way more open to discuss sexual abuse and coercion during the interview rather than in the survey. Finally, this study underscores the importance of addressing DV and calls for increased support and awareness in both Japanese society and among migrants. It also advocates for further research and the establishment of NPOs and NGOs to address these issues.
Keywords: gender, abuse, Japan, DV, migrants