Experiences of women facing intimate partner violence during the revocation of protective orders^*

ABSTRACT

Objective:  To interpret the lived experiences of women in situation of violence who request the revocation of emergency protective orders.

Method:  Strauss and Corbin’s Grounded Theory (GT) and Symbolic Interactionism were used at the Women’s Police Station in a town in the State of São Paulo, through interviews with 28 participants from two sample groups: women experiencing violence and police station professionals.

Results:  The results were organized into categories related to the components of the theoretical model, “Experiencing the Request to revoke an Emergency Protective Order,” highlighting the emotional and contextual challenges faced by women seeking formal help. These challenges are permeated by ambivalent feelings, experiences of revictimization, and different coping strategies to reframe their life trajectories.

Final Considerations:  The revocation is related to family consequences - guilt, regret, and sadness -, despite acknowledging the violence. The lack of understanding of the judicial system and the emotional bond with the perpetrator demonstrate the need to consider the symbolic meanings of interactions in primary care nursing practice.

DESCRIPTORS
Domestic Violence; Violence Against Women; Intimate Partner Violence; Gender Rights; Grounded Theory