Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) has been a long time societal problem. Social workers have been at the forefront of IPV service provision through such activities as setting up shelters and emotional support to survivors. Social workers may benefit from this study by learning ways to enhance their service delivery. Qualitative research about the experiences of IPV survivors, particularly related to service utilization, is limited. This dissertation study using qualitative methods seeks to enhance the literature about female IPV survivors’ perceptions of service use. Data were collected and analyzed from in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 16 heterosexual female IPV survivors to address their perceptions of their IPV experiences and service utilization. The convenience sampling strategy involved recruitment of survivors who were using IPV services in three research sites in two urban counties. Responses from a focus group of service providers were analyzed to enhance the findings. The findings highlight the survivors’ perceptions of the helpfulness and unhelpfulness of their informal and formal support networks as key factors in their help-seeking strategies and service utilization. The findings support three existing theoretical perspectives: Empowerment Theory, Constructivist Self-Development Paradigm, and Shame Resilience Theory/Model. Strategies for enhanced IPV service delivery were developed based on the findings in this study. The societal/practice, theory, and research implications are all referenced as they pertain to victimized women.
Author: Michele M. Scordato
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W170415307