Prevalence and Characteristics of Marital Rape Among Spouses of Men With Alcohol Use Disorder: A Cross-sectional Pilot Study

Background: Marital rape remains a largely underrecognized form of intimate partner violence despite its significant physical, psychological, and social consequences. In India, the problem is further compounded by legal and cultural barriers that contribute to underreporting and limited recognition of the issue. Alcohol consumption has been identified as an important factor associated with aggression and sexual coercion. Aim: This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and patterns of marital rape among wives of patients with alcohol use disorder attending the psychiatry outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Wives of patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who consented to participate in the study were interviewed, and their sociodemographic details, alcohol use patterns of spouses, and experiences related to marital rape were assessed. The data thus obtained were analyzed. Results: The study included 46 participants with a mean age of 38.61 ± 9.73 years and a mean duration of marriage of 19.04 ± 10.19 years. Marital rape was reported by 17.39% ( n = 8) of participants. Among affected women, the mean duration of suffering was 5.51 ± 4.42 years. The majority (75%) reported that marital rape occurred primarily when the husband consumed alcohol, while 25% reported occurrence even without alcohol intake. Most women experienced the event 1–2 times per week (62.5%), while 87.5% reported opposing the act. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for greater awareness, screening in clinical settings, and policy interventions to address marital rape and provide appropriate support for affected women.