Väkivallan haavoittavuus ja toimijuuden muutos lähisuhdeväkivallan kohteena olleiden kirjoituksissa

Interpersonal violence is a social and public health problem and a global violation of human rights. In this study, we ask how victims of interpersonal violence describe the wounding and their agency, and how they write about changes in agency. As research material, we use thematic writings of those who have experienced violence in close relationships (n=55). The theoretical framework utilises the concepts of vulnerability and agency as well as theoretical discussions concerning them. We analyse the research data through qualitative content analysis. The results show that violence significantly wounds and limits agency and its effects are long-lasting. When describing experiences of violence, authors often use therapeutic vocabulary. This can help to understand the effects of violence and get help. At the same time, it reinforces practices where the focus is on the individual and solutions are individual-centred. However, addressing violence requires attitudinal change and structural and societal solutions that enable changing practices and addressing violence and the threat of violence as early as possible.