GENDER VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: PROFILE OF FORENSIC RECORDS IN THE EXECUTIVE CENTER FOR MEDICAL AND FORENSIC DENTISTRY (GEMOL) - JOÃO PESSOA / PB

Abstract

Objective: To outline the profile of forensic records involving women victims of gender violence. Material and Methods: This was a quantitative, documental, analytical, cross-sectional study carried out to outline the profile of forensic records involving women victims of gender violence in 2009, registered at the Gerência de Medicina e Odontologia Legal (GEMOL) [Executive Center for Medical and Forensic Dentistry] of the Scientific Police Institute (IPC), in João Pessoa, Paraíba. Results: Most of the examined individuals were aged 19 to 24 years (21.7%), economically inactive (housewife and students) (39.4%). There was a predominance of single women (55.9%) attacked in their residences (38.4%). The episodes of violence were perpetrated by the victims’ companions (33.4%) and by individuals with no close relationship (police, neighbors and others) (28.8%). The presence of lesions was frequently described in the records (96.6%), and resulted from non-instrumentalized aggressions (34.2%) mainly in the head and neck area (42.5%), with predominance of ecchymosis (37.1%) and abrasions (30.2%). The majority of lesions were classified suggestively as mild (97.4%) according to article no. 129 of the Brazilian Penal Code. Conclusions: Gender violence is considered to be a contemporary issue affecting young female adults with low education and without functional occupation. Aggressions were mostly held in their residences. Victims presented with body injuries, particularly in the face, evidencing the need for attention on the part of health professionals for their engagement in activities focused on preventive and control measurements. DESCRIPTORS Violence against women. Domestic violence. Women's health.