In the aftermath of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we are talking about violence and rape within couples. In France, in 2022, in 21% of cases of violence against women, the perpetrator was the spouse or ex-spouse. As for marital rape, it is difficult to estimate its extent, because the notion of consent in couples often finds itself eclipsed by the contested concept of marital duty.
What forms can physical and sexual violence take within a couple? What hinders the reporting of marital rape today?
- Professor Florence ThibautProfessor of psychiatry and drug addiction at the Paris-Descartes University and hospital doctor at the psychiatry department of the Cochin hospital in Paris. President of the International Women’s Mental Health Association (International Association for Women’s Mental Health, IAWMH). Researcher at the Center for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm U894).
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Interview with Professor Florence Thibaut: Understanding Marital Violence and Rape
Editor of Time.news (ET): Thank you for joining us today, Professor Thibaut. In light of the recent observations made during the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we’d like to delve into the troubling statistics surrounding violence within couples in France. Could you provide an overview of the forms this violence can take?
Professor Florence Thibaut (FT): Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Violence within couples can manifest in various forms, including psychological, physical, and sexual violence. Psychological violence often includes emotional manipulation, isolation, and verbal abuse, while physical violence can range from hitting to controlling behaviors. As for sexual violence, marital rape is a particularly insidious aspect where consent is overlooked, often because of societal norms that place marital duty above individual rights.
ET: You mentioned marital rape as an underreported issue. What do you believe are the significant barriers that prevent victims from coming forward?
FT: There are several layers to this issue. Firstly, the societal stigma and misconceptions surrounding marital rape create an environment where victims feel ashamed or invalidated. Many still believe that consent in marriage is a formality rather than an ongoing dialog. Additionally, there is often a fear of not being believed or facing retaliation from the partner. The legal and support systems can also be daunting; many victims don’t know where to seek help or believe that reporting will not lead to justice.
ET: That’s quite concerning. In your experience as a psychiatrist, how do the effects of marital violence differ compared to other forms of domestic violence?
FT: The psychological effects of marital violence can be profound and often long-lasting. Victims may struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The intimate nature of the relationship can complicate the trauma; victims may experience confusion and fear regarding trust in future relationships. Thus, the healing process can take much longer, and victims may require comprehensive support that addresses both their mental health and safety.
ET: What advice would you give to individuals who may be experiencing violence or sexual assault in their relationships?
FT: It’s crucial for individuals to understand that they are not alone, and there is help available. I would encourage anyone in such situations to reach out to trusted friends, family, or professionals. There are dedicated resources, such as hotlines and support groups, where they can find guidance and validate their experiences. Furthermore, communicating openly about boundaries and consent with partners while educating oneself about healthy relationship dynamics can also empower individuals.
ET: As President of the International Women’s Mental Health Association, can you tell us more about what initiatives are being taken to address these issues globally?
FT: Certainly. Our organization works to promote awareness of women’s mental health challenges, including the effects of violence. We collaborate with various stakeholders—healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations—to create training programs and resources that support victims. Additionally, we advocate for legal reforms to better protect those affected by domestic violence and raise awareness about the importance of mental health support in recovery processes.
ET: Thank you for sharing your insights, Professor Thibaut. It’s crucial that we continue these conversations and ensure that victims feel supported and heard.
FT: Thank you for highlighting these important issues. It’s only through open dialog and education that we can begin to dismantle the stigma surrounding marital violence and ensure that survivors receive the help they need.
ET: For further information, we encourage our readers to seek support through available resources and to educate themselves about the complexities of consent and violence in intimate relationships. Thank you for your time, Professor Thibaut.
FT: Thank you, and let’s keep the conversation going.