Domestic Violence against Children and Women during the Coronavirus 2019 Pandemic (COVID-19): A Systematic Review Study

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for couples, including managing household duties, child-rearing, and communication difficulties. Unfortunately, these challenges have led to marital conflicts and, in some cases, divorce. This study was conducted to examine the prevalence of domestic violence against women and children during the pandemic.

For this research, various English databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Wiley, ProQuest EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, were searched from February 2020 to September 2022, using keywords like Children, Adolescents, Coronavirus 2019, Depression, Stress Anxiety, Domestic Violence, and Pandemic. In this study, the PRISMA systematic review study reporting guide was used.

Research findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in mental, physical, and sexual violence against children and women. Factors such as income level, employment status, age, school closures, smoking, and home quarantine have been associated with increased verbal, sexual, and physical violence against these vulnerable groups.

Violence against women and children can cause severe psychological and social consequences. As much of this violence may occur in secrecy, the country's welfare and psychological organizations must take action and promote awareness of domestic violence.