Citation

Kulkarni SJ, Bell H, Rhodes DM. Violence Against Women 2012; 18(1): 85-101.

Affiliation

University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1077801212437137

PMID

22411300

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.

Language: en