The impact of social pressure and the maternal role on self-worth in women victims of violence: A case report
The impact of social pressure and the maternal role on self-worth in women victims of violence: A case report

Summary/Abstract: Domestic violence is a complex issue that extends beyond physical trauma, deeply affecting an individual’s psychological, social, and functional well-being. Women often carry multiple burdens in this context—as both direct victims of violence and individuals subjected to societal expectations. In particular, the maternal role may lead women to prioritize their children’s well-being over their own needs, resulting in continued exposure to violence. This situation can cause significant damage to a woman’s perception of self-worth and negatively impact her help-seeking behaviors. This study aims to explore how a woman’s perception of self-worth, in the context of experiencing spousal violence, is shaped by social pressures and her maternal role. The presentation emphasizes that post-violence psychological processes intersect not only with individual factors but also with societal roles. This case study focuses on the experience of a 36-year-old married woman with two children. Themes of self-worth, maternal identity, and social pressure were examined through clinical interviews and psychological assessments. The case analysis demonstrates that the woman’s tendency to rationalize the violence she experienced is directly linked to her maternal role. The belief of “I endure it for my children” and the fear of social exclusion in case of divorce contributed to her inability to break the cycle of violence. Feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and worthlessness that developed during the process significantly damaged her self-worth. Gender roles play a decisive role in women’s psychological resilience following experiences of violence. In particular, the maternal identity directly affects how women cope with violence and seek help. Therefore, psychological interventions should address not only trauma itself but also the impact of social roles on the individual.

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