Exploring the Complexities of Dating Violence in Indonesia: Understanding Dynamics, Norms, and Strategies for Prevention

Abstract

Dating violence is still being a pervasive issue globally, affecting the health and rights of millions young individuals. Despite its prevalence, dating violence often receives less attention compared to domestic violence. This study delves into the complexities of dating violence in Indonesia, employing a mixed methods design to propose strategies for prevention and intervention. The research utilized qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods to comprehensively understand the phenomena under study. Using a thorough analysis, the research underscores the entrenched power dynamics and cultural norms that perpetuate gender-based violence. It also examined the role of gender norms in shaping attitudes towards intimate partner abuse, highlighting the influence of patriarchal beliefs, and hegemonic masculinity. Furthermore, the study evaluates the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks in combating dating violence, noting challenges related to implementation, and gender biases. In proposing solutions, the research emphasized the importance of empowerment initiatives for women and community development efforts to challenge harmful stereotypes and foster societal change. By addressing these multifaceted issues, this study contributes to the broader discourse on dating violence prevention and underscores the urgency of comprehensive interventions in Indonesia and beyond.

Author Biographies

Ani Purwanti, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia

Prof. Dr. Ani Purwanti, S.H., M. Hum., is a distinguished scholar in the field of Law and Society, currently based at the Faculty of Law, Universitas  Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Law from the Universitas Diponegoro, and her Doctoral degree in Law from the Universitas Indonesia. She is actively involved in research in the areas of law and gender, law and society, and Pancasila philosophy. She has previously served as the Acting Deputy for Legal Affairs, Advocacy, and Regulatory Oversight at the Leadership Body of Pancasila Ideology (BPIP). She serves as the Chairperson of the Association of Law Educators and Enthusiasts with a Gender Perspective in Indonesia (APPHGI).

Zahroh Shaluhiyah, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia

Prof. drg. Zahroh Shaluhiyah, M.P.H., Ph.D., is a dentist who graduated from the Universitas Indonesia and completed her Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) at the University of Hawaii, Manoa, USA, in 1989. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Exeter, UK, having conducted research into adolescent sexuality and reproductive health studies. Currently, she is a lecturer in the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences at the Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia. Her teaching responsibilities include courses on health promotion and behavior, reproductive health and HIV/AIDS, and research methodology in quantitative and qualitative studies. From 2007 to 2015, she served as the head of the Master’s Program in Health Promotion. Her primary research interests and areas of expertise include adolescent sexuality, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS.

Bagoes Widjanarko, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia

Dr. Bagoes Widjanarko, M.P.H., M.A., is a lecturer at the Faculty of Public Health at the Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia. He received his medical degree from the Universitas Diponegoro in 1990 and subsequently obtained a Master of Public Health degree from the Maastricht University, Netherlands, in 1996. Dr. Bagoes Widjanarko has also participated in various short-term courses and training programs in reproductive health and tobacco control in the UK and the USA. He is actively engaged in research and community service, having been involved in numerous public health research projects, particularly those related to tuberculosis control and obesity risk factors in children. Additionally, he has served as a speaker and trainer in various health seminars and training sessions at both national and international levels.

Aga Natalis, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia

Dr. Aga Natalis, S.H., M.H., Ph.D., is a researcher based at the Faculty of Law, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia. He received his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Law from the same institution. He is actively engaged in research, with a particular focus on the law and gender, law and society, ecofeminism, and prostitution policy.

Published
2024-10-21
How to Cite
Purwanti, A., Shaluhiyah, Z., Widjanarko, B., & Natalis, A. (2024). Exploring the Complexities of Dating Violence in Indonesia: Understanding Dynamics, Norms, and Strategies for Prevention. Changing Societies & Personalities, 8(3), 802–818. doi:10.15826/csp.2024.8.3.300
Section
Articles