A Study of Acid Attacks Based on Victim's Experiences: Causes and Strategies

Introduction: Acid attacks are undertaken with the intent to harm, disfigure, or kill another individual. In recent years, these attacks have had an increasing trend. Scientific research can provide a more in-depth understanding of this phenomenon. Thus, the present study investigated the nature and dimensions of acid throwing based on victim&#۳۹;s experiences. Method: This qualitative study used the grounded theory method according to the approach of Strauss and Corbin. It was initiated by purposeful sampling and continued by applying theoretical sampling. Data saturation was achieved through semi-structured interviews with ۱۲ victims. Data analysis was performed using the method recommended by Strauss and Corbin and was coded in ۳ phases of open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Results: The main theme of “physical and psychological wounds” emerged as a result of data analysis. The themes of self-recovery, active personal strategies and avoidance at a personal level, family and friends and social support at a medium level, and not accepting structural support also emerged. Living with substance-abusers with behavioral disorders, and lack of problem-solving skills in the face of interpersonal conflicts were shown to be causal conditions of acid attacks. Conclusion: Acid attacks result in physical and psychological wounds in victims. Due to being a multi-dimensional (illness, disability, and victimization) phenomena, it requires a wide range of strategies at different levels

Keywords:

acid splashing , Grounded theory , physical and psychic wounds