Paper short abstract:

In recent years Vietnam has become committed to addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) issues. This study utilized the Grounded Theory methodology to examine the in-depth experiences of 10 GBV service providers in Vietnam. 5 major themes and 11 sub-themes have emerged from the interview data.

Paper long abstract:

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a complex global problem that is deeply rooted in sociopolitical and cultural values, attitudes, and behaviors. While men are also affected, women and LGBTQ communities are predominant victims of GBV. GBV in Vietnam is found to be a pervasive problem with 58% of ever-married women having experienced at least one form of violence (physical, sexual and emotional) in their lifetime. In recent years Vietnam has become more actively committed to addressing GBV issues via various services. This study utilized semi-structured interviews and the Grounded Theory methodology to examine the in-depth experiences of 10 GBV service providers from 10 agencies in Vietnam, serving a wide range of populations, such as school-aged and college populations, women and girls, and LGBTQ community. Major themes emerging from the interview data include (1) cultural factors influencing GBV in Vietnam, (2) challenges and promises of GBV services in Vietnam, (3) suggested solutions for the improvement of GBV services, (4) self-care and burnout issues among GBV service providers, and (5) impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on the GBV services. There are also 11 prominent sub-themes, such as Confucian, feudal, and collectivistic cultural values on gender-based biases, intergenerational transmission of values and the internalization of the values among GBV victims that keep them in the “vicious loop” of violence, and positive/negative impacts on the service providers’ health. Practical and clinical implications of the findings will be discussed in the context of a positive psychology, positive anthropology, and strengths-based framework.