Modes of Dating Violence in Young Adults Within Pakistani Culture: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

In the Pakistani cultural context, dating violence is a pervasive issue that poses significant risks to mental health. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences and expressions of young adults who have faced dating violence, with a focus on informing counseling and early intervention. Through interpretative phenomenological analysis of semistructured interviews with 10 young adults (5 men and 5 women) aged 18–25 years, we identified superordinate themes of psychological, emotional, and physical modes of dating violence. Subordinate themes revealed a range of controlling and manipulating, stalking and surveillance, intimidating, isolation, communication gap, exploiting emotional dependency, ridiculing, lowering self-esteem and identity erosion, emotional distancing and neglect, humiliation and degradation, devaluation and defame, physical assault and injury, property damage, coercing or attempting sexual contact, and restraining and confinement. Our findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive intervention of dating violence in Pakistan including the integration of psychological support and emotional counseling, where societal pressure, family expectations, and gender roles exacerbate the abuse. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of dating violence in Pakistan and underscores the importance of tailored interventions to mitigate its devastating effects on mental health.