The development implications for social networks in working with domestic violence in rural Thailand through embedded mixed methods research

Abstract

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that plagues societies worldwide.
It affects all members of society, including children, youth, women, men, and
the elderly. Social networks play an integral role in addressing this challenge
from the local to the global level. This study aims to develop guidelines for
improving social networks’ efficacy in responding to domestic violence using
embedded mixed-methods research. Qualitative research was used as the
primary approach with interviews and focus group discussions conducted in
two rural communities located in Udon Thani and Nong Khai Province in
northeastern Thailand. Additionally, quantitative methods were employed
through questionnaires distributed among 449 samples (n = 449) selected from
four provinces representing social network representatives such as village
chiefs, village health volunteers, social developers, local nurses, local police,
and teachers among others. The analysis involved thematic analysis along with
descriptive and inferential statistics to synthesize development implications for
elevating mechanisms aimed at coping effectively with family abuse issues.
The research identified eight key pathways that could be instrumental in
enhancing social networks’ ability to address domestic abuse: adjusting
people’s attitudes; creating awareness through projects or activities; developing
databases based on stakeholder participation; expanding ideas into other
areas; addressing complexities related to legal aspects of violence including
mental health and drug abuse; rehearsing emergency plans with relevant staff;
providing support tools and rewards for actors while designing models suitable
for situational events unique to different regions. These points are crucial
towards reducing cases of domestic violence during uncertain times.