A STUDY OF THE PERSONAL PROTECTION ORDER : PERSPECTIVES OF THE SURVIVORS

Abstract

This research study explores in detail the emotional and behavioural changes experienced by the abuse victims since their acquisition of the personal protection orders. The effect of the court orders on the batterer's violent behaviour is also a concern of this study as this is often intimately intertwined and affects the changes which the victims undergone. Taking a step further beyond inquiring about the transformation in the lives of the subjects, the study examines critically the involvement of interacting dynamic factors which may possibly account for the eventual changes as experienced. In-depth interviews with the PPO procures were conducted and content analysis of the verbatim transcripts of the interview sessions were carried out in pursuit of the answers to the research questions. In addition, instances where the victims did not receive adequate protection, due to gaps in the weak enforcement of the court orders, are illustrated in a bid to yield specific recommendations to improve the enforcement and protective ability of the PPO.