A Study on The Reasons Behind IPV Tolerance Among Educated Women in Bangladesh

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive issue deeply rooted in societal structures, often challenging to identify and address in legal contexts due to its complex nature. This study explores the reasons behind educated women tolerating IPV in Bangladesh, a topic previously unexamined in the country. Employing a qualitative approach, the research utilizes secondary data analysis and in-depth interviews with educated women who have experienced IPV. The primary finding reveals that fear of social stigma is the predominant factor in these women's decision to remain in abusive relationships despite their desire to leave. This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the persistence of IPV among educated women in Bangladesh and underscoring the limitations of education alone as a protective factor. This research also highlights the unfriendly/unwelcoming nature of Bangladesh’s legal environment despite the presence of laws that align with international standards. Limitations of the study include the potential overlap between IPV and marital dissatisfaction and the inability to verify perspectives from opposite points of view. Future research should address these gaps to provide a more comprehensive understanding of IPV dynamics in Bangladesh.