NCJ Number
180038
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 5 Issue: 11 Dated: November 1999 Pages: 1294-1320
Date Published
1999
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This article examines the uxoricide-patriarchy connection and the sociocultural context of husband-wife killings in Fiji.
Abstract
Prior research has demonstrated a close relationship between patriarchy and female homicide victimization. This study examines the uxoricide-patriarchy connection in a non-Western society, Fiji. Most cases of uxoricide among Fiji Indians resulted from husbands' attempts to enforce traditional sexual mores firmly established in a rigidly patriarchal society. Rancorous confrontations between husbands and wives over allegations of marital infidelity were among the leading causes of spousal homicides committed by men. The article includes data on patriarchal ideology and family in Fiji Indian culture and sanctioning patriarchal norms. Most non-lethal abuse and spouse homicides in Fiji Indian society stemmed from the multifaceted nature of women's subordination and subjugation and men's dependence on violence to exert patriarchal dominance and control. Notes, references