Family Violence Including Crimes of Honor in Jordan

Abstract

This study describes university students' perceptions of the seriousness of family violence in Jordan, including crimes of honor and, within constraints, identifies demographic and attitudinal factors associated with these perceptions. Data were extracted from a comprehensive survey of a stratified random sample of students attending two major universities in Jordan during the spring of 1995. Descriptive statistics demonstrate that well more than half the students view six types of family violence as “very much of a problem.” Results indicate that only the social class variables of father's occupational status and mother's education significantly influence students' perceptions of family violence in the combined sample. Sex differences are found when data from men and women are analyzed separately. Study findings connected with the literature review demonstrate the need for extended research and offer support for Jordanians who are calling for legal and social reforms related to family violence.

Attitudes of Jordanian Youth towards Violence against Women

“…The findings of this study are congruent with other studies carried out by (Araji & Carlson, 2001;Haj-yahia. 1998Haj-yahia.…”

“…"This situation is consistent with gender roles and status expectations within the Jordanian social system; in order to avoid such consequences, women have to comply with social and cultural rules that justify violence as part of women discipline and husband authority. Women usually deny their fear and minimize the seriousness of the situation; and they are shameful and stigma (Al-Badayneh,2012).Other literatures showed that interference in family problems particularly those concerning women is considered to be a private matter and interference in such matters is unacceptable and rejected by the society (Matalka, 2009, Al -badayneh, 2005Araji & Carlson, 2001, Haj-Yahia, 2002b, 2005.…”

“…9, No. 3;2013 against women (Khawaja, et al, 2008, Oweis, et al 2009, Araji & Carlson, 2001, Al-badayneh, 2012.…”

“…They also see that using physical abuse against women and wives in particular was not a problem (Matalka, 2009;Haj-Yahia, 2005, Araji & Carlson, 2001Khawaja, et al 2008;Khawaja, 2004).…”

“…Studies on violence against women in the Jordanian society pointed out that violence against women is considered to be a familial matter rather than a social or legal issue, speaking about violence within the family particularly violence against women to others than the family members is considered to be shame , stigmatizes the family and damages family dignity , unity and reputation ( Haj-yahia, 1998,2002zb,a+ 2005Btoush and HajYahia, 2008: Al -badayneh, 2005a: Araji & Carlson , 2001: Matalka, 2012.…”