Psychological Experiences Of Parents Of Victims Of Intimate Partner Homicide In The Khomas Region

ABSTRACT

Research on Intimate Partner Homicide (IPH), particularly the study on parents of murdered victims is not widely documented. In Namibia, little is known about the impact of IPH on the parents, since more attention is directed to either the victims or perpetrators of these crimes with less focus on the parents of the victims. The purpose of this study was to explore the psychological experiences for parents of IPH victims in the Khomas region. To answer the research question, “How do parents of intimate partner homicide victims experience the events of IPH?” a qualitative research design using a narrative interview guide was undertaken. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with six (6) parents who lost their children due to IPH. An ATLAS. ti was used to analyse the data. Five (5) themes emerged from the results of the study. The study revealed that parents who have lost their children through IPH have different psychological experiences. The experiences varied from negative thoughts and emotions such as hopelessness, anger and pain, self-blame, and negative feelings towards the perpetrator such as hate. Parents also reported that they became isolated from the community and family, while they also experienced disturbed sleep and mental illnesses. It was gathered that parents suffer immensely from the events of IPH and it could be beneficial if they get help. Recommendations that were proposed included offering psychoeducation on IPH, psychological counselling and facilitating support groupsfor the parents.