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Back to Basics: Essential Qualities of Services for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

NCJ Number
239191
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2012 Pages: 85-101
Author(s)
Shanti J. Kulkarni; Holly Bell; Diane McDaniel Rhodes
Date Published
January 2012
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study examined survivor-focused services.
Abstract
Survivor voice is essential to effectively implement survivor-focused IPV (intimate partner violence) services. In this focus group study, domestic violence survivors (n = 30) shared detailed perspectives as service seekers and recipients, whereas national hotline advocates (n = 24) explored relationships between service providers and survivors based on their interactions with both. Four thematic categories related to enhancing IPV services emerged: providing empathy, supporting empowerment, individualizing care, and maintaining ethical boundaries. Advocates identified additional factors that interfered with quality services, including the following: inadequate organizational resources, staff burnout, lack of training, and poor integration with other community resources. Respectful, empowering relationships are the centerpiece for quality IPV services. (Published Abstract)

Publication Format
Article
Language
English
Country
United States of America