Lockdown-Induced Shadow Pandemic: A Phenomenological Interpretation of Domestic Violence in Kerala

Abstract

The COVID-19 restrictions led to a shadow pandemic, disproportionately affecting women through increased violence. Lifestyle changes imposed by local governments to combat the pandemic exacerbated domestic violence, coining the term “Shadow Pandemic” by UN Women. This study explores the experiences of violence faced by married women in Kerala during the COVID-19 lockdown. A phenomenological approach was used to examine narratives from 35 women victims of domestic violence. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify significant themes. The findings reveal a spectrum of abuse, categorized into key themes: marital disharmony, constant surveillance, entrapment in fear, denial of freedom, challenges due to lockdown, and coping mechanisms. These themes highlight the profound distress and how women responded to the adversity. The lockdown-induced shadow pandemic has deeply affected women, illustrating the intersection of a global health crisis and a surge in gender-based violence. This study emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive societal action. Prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of women is critical to ensuring their inclusion in the recovery process post-pandemic.