A Synthesis of Research on Domestic Violence in Thailand

Abstract

This article aimed to (1) examine the situation and synthesize existing knowledge from research on domestic violence in Thailand, and (2) develop policy recommendations for relevant agencies to prevent and address domestic violence issues. The research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing the concept of research synthesis in conjunction with theoretical frameworks related to domestic violence as the analytical foundation. The content analysis covered studies on spousal violence conducted and published between 2018 and 2022. The research results were as follows: 1) Most research on spousal violence in Thailand focused on preventive and remedial measures for domestic violence. However, there remained a lack of studies exploring emerging forms of domestic violence and the practical challenges faced by officials in implementing legal measures—topics that were still underrepresented in current research. 2) The synthesis of findings highlighted key policy implications, particularly the need for the state to revise existing legislation to encompass new and evolving forms of violence, as well as to strengthen the proactive roles of local administrative organizations and civil society in domestic violence prevention and intervention efforts. The findings from this study constitute an academic knowledge base on domestic violence, providing a critical foundation for the advancement of future research and serving as an evidence-based resource to inform and support the formulation of concrete policy measures by the government and relevant agencies.