From victimisation to perpetration: a qualitative exploration of the lived experiences and perceptions of incarcerated women convicted of intimate partner violence in Maputo, Mozambique

Objective Numerous studies focus on women’s experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV), but there is a lack of qualitative studies focusing on women who, as victims, become perpetrators. The study explored the lived experiences and perceptions of incarcerated women convicted of IPV against their partner in Maputo, Mozambique.

Design and setting A qualitative approach was utilised with females purposively sampled for one-on-one semi-structured interviews in the Maputo female prison setting. Data were analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).

Participants Nine females over the age of 18 convicted and incarcerated for perpetrating IPV against their violent partners. Findings The analysis revealed three themes: Theme 1: Childhood exposure to violence, with subthemes: direct violence in childhood, witnessing violence in the family and the role of alcohol consumption in violence within the family.

Theme 2: Living in a violent intimate relationship with subthemes: psychological violence, coping strategies as victims of IPV and use of self-defence during violent episodes. Theme 3: Consequences of IPV perpetration, with subthemes incarceration experience, mistrust of prison psychology services, disintegration of their families and plans for the future.