Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine motivators for intimate partner violence (IPV) help-seeking among mothers. This
qualitative study used English and Spanish-speaking focus groups and a grounded theory approach. Sixty-two mothers participated
in eight groups. Motivators for IPV help-seeking fell into two broad categories, internal and external motivators. Although
participants cited numerous motivators for IPV help-seeking, recognizing the negative effects of IPV on their children, labeling
the partner’s behavior as abusive and the intervention of others were particularly important. For many participants, the effects
of IPV on their children were the most important motivator. Few women made the decision to seek help without the encouragement
of others. Unique to the Spanish-speaking participants was the influence of immigration status and limitations to disclosure
created by using significant others as translators. Exploration of incorporating these motivators into IPV intervention efforts
is warranted.
qualitative study used English and Spanish-speaking focus groups and a grounded theory approach. Sixty-two mothers participated
in eight groups. Motivators for IPV help-seeking fell into two broad categories, internal and external motivators. Although
participants cited numerous motivators for IPV help-seeking, recognizing the negative effects of IPV on their children, labeling
the partner’s behavior as abusive and the intervention of others were particularly important. For many participants, the effects
of IPV on their children were the most important motivator. Few women made the decision to seek help without the encouragement
of others. Unique to the Spanish-speaking participants was the influence of immigration status and limitations to disclosure
created by using significant others as translators. Exploration of incorporating these motivators into IPV intervention efforts
is warranted.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Article
- Pages 1-8
- DOI 10.1007/s10896-011-9401-5
- Authors
- Kimberly A. Randell, Division of Emergency Medical Services, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Linda K. Bledsoe, Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
- Purvi L. Shroff, Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
- Mary Clyde Pierce, Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA
- Journal Journal of Family Violence
- Online ISSN 1573-2851
- Print ISSN 0885-7482