Abstract
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.
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.
- Content Type Journal Article
- DOI 10.1007/s10896-010-9342-4
- Authors
- Paula Johnston-McCabe, Nerve To Serve Organization, Melbourne, FL USA
- Micòl Levi-Minzi, Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
- Vincent B. Van Hasselt, Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
- August Vanderbeek, Dolphin Journeys for Deaf Children, Pagosa Springs, CO USA
- Journal Journal of Family Violence
- Online ISSN 1573-2851
- Print ISSN 0885-7482