The Trinidad and Tobago Covid-19 Domestic Violence Victimization and Perpetration Study

Purpose While there is available scholarship in the Global North on DV victimization and perpetration during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a dearth of similar scholarship in the Global South. With this in mind, the Trinidad and Tobago COVID-19 Domestic Violence Victimization and Perpetration study was conducted in an attempt to fill that void. Method An online questionnaire containing a qualitative component was used to gather data aimed at determining whether DV victimization and perpetration had increased during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as possible contributory factors. Participants were 602 married or cohabiting adult citizens in Trinidad and Tobago. Results The results indicated that overall there was an increase in DV perpetration (13%) as well as an increase in DV victimization (16%) among the sampled population. The results also indicated that males (17%) and females (13%) in the sample engaged in increased levels of DV perpetration, while males (25%) and females (12%) were victims of increased DV victimization. Six themes emanated from the qualitative component of the study, namely: isolation/Covid-19 restrictions, lack of assistance for victims, male fear of reporting DV, work as a safe space, mental health effects and job loss. Conclusion The findings revealed increased DV perpetration and victimization among the study’s participants. These findings have implications for policymakers in Trinidad and Tobago.