Domestic Violence and Social Support in a Clinical Sample of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Women

The present study examined domestic violence and perceived social support in a clinical sample of Deaf and Hard of Hearing
women. Forty-six adult Deaf and Hard of Hearing females receiving outpatient mental health services completed a modified version
of the Conflict Tactics Scale and the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List. Results showed that nearly three-quarters (71.7%)
of the sample related experiencing psychologically abusive behaviors, and over one-half (56.5%) reported a history of physical
violence from a partner. In addition, participants reported experiences of domestic abuse directly related to their deafness.
Level of perceived social support did not differ for participants with a history of domestic violence victimization compared
to those with no such history. Findings underscore the need for increased awareness of Deaf and Hard of Hearing women as a
population at high risk, and warranting further investigative attention, with regard to domestic violence.