Unpacking Post-Pandemic Realities of Domestic Violence: Baseline Study for a Strategic Extension Program

Domestic violence trends fluctuated globally during the COVID-19 pandemic with some countries reporting increases. Other countries reported declines, though experts caution that these declines likely reflect underreporting as many victims were isolated with abusers and lacked access to support. In post-COVID-19 pandemic, domestic violence remains a pervasive issue across all regions and demographics, transcending geographical, cultural, and socioeconomic boundaries. This study aimed to determine the domestic violence and its causes during the post COVID-19 pandemic in Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte as basis in the development of strategic extension program. The respondents of the study were victims of domestic violence during the post-COVID-19 period and were residents of the municipality of Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte. They were identified through records from the Municipal Police Station and Social Welfare and Development Office. Utilizing quantitative data, descriptive correlational was employed as research design utilizing quantitative data. Findings revealed that post-COVID-19 domestic violence stemmed from individual factors like alcohol abuse, jealousy, adultery, and drug abuse; family factors such as relationship issues, communication problems, in-laws interference, and family stress; socioeconomic factors like financial struggles, debt, unemployment, female employment status, and work-related issues; and societal factors including low education, cultural and religious beliefs, social norm breakdown, and isolation. There was no significant correlation between the types of domestic violence and its causes. Collaborative prevention efforts involving the Municipal Police Station, Jose Rizal Memorial State University, and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office are essential in addressing this community issue effectively.