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Fisher CA, Cairns G, Jones S, Wilson I, Withiel TD. Domestic and Family Violence Screening and Response: A Prospective, Cross-Sectional, Mixed Methods Survey in Private Mental Health Clients. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 39225127 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Most domestic and family violence (DFV) research has focused on establishing prevalence and screening rates in public health and community samples. This study sought to address a gap in the literature by evaluating DFV screening and response practices in a private mental healthcare inpatient service and determining if clients of the service had unmet DFV needs. A prospective, convenience sample, mixed methods, cross-sectional survey of adult inpatient mental health consumers was employed. Sixty-two participants completed the Royal Melbourne Hospital Patient Family Violence Survey. Quantitative Likert-type and categorical responses were collated and analysed descriptively (count and percentage). Free-text responses were analysed using qualitative description within a content analysis framework. Sixty-five percent of participants had been screened for at least one DFV issue, on at least one occasion, with 35% not being screened, to their recall. Twenty-three percent reported disclosing DFV concerns, 82% felt very supported by the clinician's response to their disclosure, and 86% were provided with information they found helpful. Unmet needs were identified in 13% of participants, who had wanted to disclose DFV concerns but not feel comfortable to do so. No unscreened respondents disclosed DFV concerns, highlighting the need to uphold best practice guidelines for direct enquiry. Most disclosing clients were positive about the support they received. Indicated areas for improvement were screening rates, active follow-up, increasing psychology support levels and safety planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Fisher
- The Melbourne Clinic, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
- Allied Health - Psychology and Family Safety Team, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Sue Jones
- The Melbourne Clinic, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Toni D Withiel
- Allied Health - Psychology and Family Safety Team, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Chan JP, Harris KA, Berkowitz A, Ferber A, Greenwald BD, Valera EM. Experiences of Domestic Violence in Adult Patients with Brain Injury: A Select Overview of Screening, Reporting, and Next Steps. Brain Sci 2024; 14:716. [PMID: 39061456 PMCID: PMC11274718 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This select overview examines the important intersection of adult domestic violence, including intimate partner violence and elder abuse, with brain injury. Despite the high prevalence of domestic violence amongst brain injury patients, there is a notable gap in screening and management training for providers. To provide optimal patient care, brain injury medicine clinicians must screen, recognize, and treat patients who have experienced domestic violence. This select overview highlights barriers to screening, validated screening tools from other medical disciplines, and management considerations for the brain injury clinician. A suggested protocol for domestic violence screening and management, as well as recommended resources for providers and patients, is summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie P. Chan
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ 08820, USA; (J.P.C.); (K.A.H.); (A.B.); (A.F.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Kristen A. Harris
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ 08820, USA; (J.P.C.); (K.A.H.); (A.B.); (A.F.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Arielle Berkowitz
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ 08820, USA; (J.P.C.); (K.A.H.); (A.B.); (A.F.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Ally Ferber
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ 08820, USA; (J.P.C.); (K.A.H.); (A.B.); (A.F.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Brian D. Greenwald
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ 08820, USA; (J.P.C.); (K.A.H.); (A.B.); (A.F.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Eve M. Valera
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Lévesque S, Jean-Thorn A, Rousseau C. A Latent Class Analysis of Reproductive Coercion Experiences Based on Victim-Survivors' Acknowledgment and Disclosure Patterns. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024:8862605241259409. [PMID: 38898711 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241259409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Reproductive coercion (RC) is a form of violence involving behavior that interferes with an individual's contraceptive and reproductive decisions. Like other forms of violence perpetrated by intimate partners, victims of RC do not necessarily identify it as such. Similarly, victim-survivors do not readily disclose their experiences or seek support and treatment. This study identifies patterns of acknowledgment and formal and informal disclosure of RC experiences in a community sample of 317 participants. Latent classes are then compared with respect to characteristics of victims/survivors, RC consequences, and associated contexts. Participants completed measures to assess experiences of RC and violence perpetuated by intimate partners as well as social support, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and consequences for psychological and sexual health. Latent class analysis was performed to identify acknowledgment and disclosure patterns. An optimal three-class solution was selected: High unacknowledgment with ambivalence, High disclosure (41%); High acknowledgment, High disclosure (30%); and Hesitant acknowledgment, No disclosure (29%). Classes were identified according to the presence of social support, living with a disability, victimization experiences, and mental and sexual health consequences. Future studies should explore the relationship between RC acknowledgment and disclosure, which can influence victims' search trajectories for support and services.
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Kimber M, McTavish J, Shouldice M, Ward MGK, MacMillan HL. Savoir détecter l'exposition des enfants à la violence entre partenaires intimes, qu'elle soit présumée ou divulguée, et savoir intervenir. Paediatr Child Health 2024; 29:174-188. [PMID: 38827373 PMCID: PMC11141609 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxad080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
L'exposition des enfants à la violence entre partenaires intimes (EEVPI), qu'il s'agisse des parents ou d'autres proches, représente près de la moitié de tous les cas qui font l'objet d'une enquête et sont corroborés par les services de protection de l'enfance du Canada. Les atteintes affectives, physiques et comportementales associées à l'EEVPI sont semblables aux effets d'autres formes de maltraitance envers les enfants. Il peut être difficile d'établir quels enfants et adolescents sont exposés à la violence entre partenaires intimes (VPI) en raison des comportements non spécifiques parfois associés à une telle exposition, de même que de la stigmatisation et du secret entourant souvent ce type de violence. Par ailleurs, une intervention en toute sécurité auprès des enfants et des adolescents chez qui on présume une exposition à la VPI peut être compliquée par la nécessité d'également tenir compte de la sécurité et du bien-être d'un proche non contrevenant. Le présent document de principes propose une approche fondée sur des données probantes mise au point par le projet VEGA (Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action ou violence, données probantes, conseils, action) pour détecter l'exposition des enfants et des adolescents à la VPI et intervenir en toute sécurité auprès d'eux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kimber
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, section de la prévention de la maltraitance d'enfants et d'adolescents, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Jill McTavish
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, section de la prévention de la maltraitance d'enfants et d'adolescents, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Michelle Shouldice
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, section de la prévention de la maltraitance d'enfants et d'adolescents, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Michelle G K Ward
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, section de la prévention de la maltraitance d'enfants et d'adolescents, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Harriet L MacMillan
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, section de la prévention de la maltraitance d'enfants et d'adolescents, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
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Kimber M, McTavish J, Shouldice M, Ward MGK, MacMillan HL. Recognizing and responding to children with suspected exposure to intimate partner violence between caregivers. Paediatr Child Health 2024; 29:174-188. [PMID: 38827374 PMCID: PMC11141601 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxad079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Children's exposure to intimate partner violence (CEIPV) between parents and other caregivers accounts for nearly half of all cases investigated and substantiated by child welfare authorities in Canada. The emotional, physical, and behavioural impairments associated with CEIPV are similar to effects of other forms of child maltreatment. The identification of children and youth who have been exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) can be challenging due to the non-specific behaviours sometimes associated with such exposure, and the stigma and secrecy that often characterize IPV. Also, responding safely to children and youth with suspected CEIPV can be complicated by the need to consider the safety and well-being of a non-offending caregiver. This position statement presents an evidence-informed approach developed by the Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action (VEGA) Project for the safe recognition and response to children and youth who are suspected of being exposed to IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kimber
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Child and Youth Maltreatment Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill McTavish
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Child and Youth Maltreatment Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michelle Shouldice
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Child and Youth Maltreatment Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michelle G K Ward
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Child and Youth Maltreatment Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harriet L MacMillan
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Child and Youth Maltreatment Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Kimber M, Baker-Sullivan E, Stewart DE, Vanstone M. Improving Health Professional Recognition and Response to Child Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence: Protocol for Two Mixed Methods Pilot Randomized Controlled Trials. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e50864. [PMID: 38512307 PMCID: PMC10995786 DOI: 10.2196/50864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal educational approach for preparing health professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively recognize and respond to family violence, including child maltreatment and intimate partner violence, remains unclear. The Violence, Evidence, Guidance, and Action (VEGA) Family Violence Education Resources is a novel intervention that can be completed via self-directed learning or in a workshop format; both approaches focus on improving health professional preparedness to address family violence. OBJECTIVE Our studies aim to determine the acceptability and feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the self-directed (experimental intervention) and workshop (active control) modalities of VEGA, as an adjunct to standard education, to improve learner (Researching the Impact of Service provider Education [RISE] with Residents) and independent practice (RISE with Veterans) health professional preparedness, knowledge, and skills related to recognizing family violence in their health care encounters. METHODS The RISE with Residents and RISE with Veterans research studies use embedded experimental mixed methods research designs. The quantitative strand for each study follows the principles of a pilot randomized controlled trial. For RISE with Residents, we aimed to recruit 80 postgraduate medical trainees; for RISE with Veterans, we intended to recruit 80 health professionals who work or have worked with Veterans (or their family members) of the Canadian military or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in a direct service capacity. Participants complete quantitative assessments at baseline, after intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. A subset of participants from each arm also undergoes a qualitative semistructured interview with the aim of describing participants' perceptions of the value and impact of each VEGA modality, as well as research burden. Scores on potential outcome measures will be mapped to excerpts of qualitative data via a mixed methods joint display to aid in the interpretation of findings. RESULTS We consented 71 individuals to participate in the RISE with Residents study. Data collection was completed on August 31, 2023, and data are currently being cleaned and prepared for analysis. As of January 15, 2024, we consented 34 individuals in the RISE with Veterans study; data collection will be completed in March 2024. For both studies, no data analysis had taken place at the time of manuscript submission. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications; academic conferences; and posting and sharing of study summaries and infographics on social media, the project website, and via professional network listserves. CONCLUSIONS Reducing the impacts of family violence remains a pressing public health challenge. Both research studies will provide a valuable methodological contribution about the feasibility of trial methods in health professions education focused on family violence. They will also contribute to education science about the differences in the effectiveness of self-directed versus facilitator-led learning strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05490121, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05490121; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05490004, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05490004. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/50864.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kimber
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Baker-Sullivan
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Donna E Stewart
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Davidson CA, Safar C, Yates J, Shillington KJ, Nncube N, Mantler T. Resilience Across the Life Course for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. Violence Against Women 2024:10778012241236675. [PMID: 38439704 DOI: 10.1177/10778012241236675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
This study employed a life course perspective to explore the resilience of Canadian women of various ages who had experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). Interpretive description was used to analyze 22 in-depth, semi-structured interview transcripts with women who ranged in age from >19 to 60+ years. Results revealed that developmental age affected service accessibility and effectiveness, historical age shaped abuse normalization, and social age presented barriers and facilitators to women's resilience. This study highlighted the central role of resilience for women of all ages who have experienced IPV and emphasized the need for accessible, effective, and supportive services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara A Davidson
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Safar
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia Yates
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katie J Shillington
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science, Wilfred Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nokuzola Nncube
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tara Mantler
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Freedman DE, Krysko KM, Feinstein A. Intimate partner violence and multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2024; 30:295-298. [PMID: 37732567 PMCID: PMC10935614 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231197926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
People with MS may be at heightened risk of intimate partner violence (IPV) compared to the general population; however, little is known about the prevalence of IPV among people with MS or its effects on MS-specific clinical outcomes. Additionally, while MS clinicians often discuss family planning with patients, many clinicians may have received little training in detecting and responding to IPV. Moreover, no studies have investigated how to implement IPV case-finding and resource provision in the MS clinical setting. Overall, there are several scholarly, educational, and implementation-related gaps in IPV-associated care for people with MS. This article aims to summarize the available literature on IPV in people with MS, identify future research questions, and aid MS clinicians in safely addressing IPV while awaiting vital MS-specific knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Freedman
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kristen M Krysko
- BARLO MS Centre, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anthony Feinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Alshammari A, Evans C, Mcgarry J. Nurses' experiences of perceiving violence and abuse of women in Saudi Arabia: A phenomenological study. Int Nurs Rev 2023; 70:501-509. [PMID: 37401925 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM To explore the practices, understanding, and experiences of nurses and nursing students about domestic violence and abuse in Saudi Arabia. BACKGROUND Domestic violence and abuse is a well-known public health issue and a clear violation of human rights resulting in detrimental effects on women's health. INTRODUCTION Societal and cultural barriers in Saudi Arabia limit women's rights and disclosure of violence within marriage and families, preventing access to health care and support. There are few reports of this phenomenon in Saudi Arabia. METHODS We used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach to acquire in-depth insights into nurses' perceptions and experiences regarding domestic violence and abuse. Eighteen nurses and student nurses were recruited from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using convenience sampling. Data were gathered between October 2017 and February 2018 through in-depth semistructured interviews, organized using NVivo 12 and analyzed manually to identify consistent themes. This study adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. FINDINGS An overarching concept of "being disempowered" was identified, which was present at three levels: a lack of nurses' professional preparation, insufficient organizational structures and processes, and wider social and cultural components. CONCLUSION This study provides an in-depth account of nurses' practices, understanding, and experiences of domestic violence and abuse, highlighting the sensitivity and difficulties of addressing the problem in hospitals across Saudi Arabia and potentially other similar countries. IMPLICATIONS The study's findings will inform the development of nursing education and practice in Saudi Arabia, as well as pave the way toward formulating effective strategies with needed modifications in curriculum, organizations, policy, procedures, and laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alkadi Alshammari
- Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing, Community Health Nursing and Mental Health Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Catrin Evans
- Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Julie Mcgarry
- Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing, Community Health Nursing and Mental Health Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Professor in Nursing and Gender-Based Violence, University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Health Sciences School, Sheffield, UK
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Anyango C, Goicolea I, Namatovu F. Women with disabilities' experiences of intimate partner violence: a qualitative study from Sweden. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:381. [PMID: 37474929 PMCID: PMC10360297 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02524-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a prevalent form of gender-based violence affecting one in three women globally. It is also a preventable cause of ill-health, disability, and death. Current research suggests that women with disabilities are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing violence throughout their lifetime. They are almost twice as likely to experience violence compared to men with disabilities or men and women without disabilities. Additionally, they experience higher rates of all types of violence. This increased vulnerability may be due to factors related to disability such as dependence on others for support, mistrust, and social and physical isolation. Although there is existing research on IPV against women in general, there is limited knowledge on IPV against women with disabilities. To address this gap in knowledge, this study aimed to explore women with disabilities' perceptions and experiences of being victims/survivors of IPV in Sweden. METHODS This was a qualitative study conducted through in-depth interviews with eleven women with disabilities. The participants were aged eighteen years upwards. The collected data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis with a constructivist epistemological standpoint. RESULTS We developed four themes. Theme one: "multiple abuse by multiple abusers, over time," describes the participants' experiences of various types of violence from different perpetrators for prolonged periods. Theme two: "psychological abuse-harmful, but neglected and difficult to prove," explains how women with disabilities' perceive psychological abuse as harmful, but not given the same level of seriousness as physical violence. It also expresses the difficulties they encountered in providing tangible evidence to prove instances of psychological abuse. Theme three: "abuse does not end with separation," highlights how abuse can continue beyond separation/divorce. Theme four: "surviving abusive relationships" describes the different and evolving ways the participants used to navigate their abusive relationships. CONCLUSIONS Women with disabilities face all forms of abuse. They find it challenging to prove psychological abuse, and the system is inadequate in addressing its harm. The abuse also continues after separation or divorce. The support system should consider the needs of women with disabilities who experience violence, both during and after the abusive relationship. Service providers should be better equipped to detect and handle all types of IPV, especially psychological abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cartrine Anyango
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
- Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Isabel Goicolea
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Fredinah Namatovu
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Fu Y, Fournier K, Seguin N, Cobey K, Sampsel K, Murphy MSQ, Wen SW, Walker M, Muldoon KA. Interventions for intimate partner violence during the perinatal period: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e065560. [PMID: 37451742 PMCID: PMC10351229 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, the prevalence and incidence of perinatal intimate partner violence (IPV) are well documented and substantiated; however, there is an urgent need to identify interventions to prevent recurrence or revictimisation, and decrease the harms of perinatal IPV. This scoping review is designed to broadly capture all potential interventions for the secondary prevention of IPV, review them in detail, and assess what can reduce revictimisation and foster improvements in both maternal and neonatal outcomes. METHODS AND ANALYSIS With the structure of the Joanna Briggs Institute and Arksey and O'Malley methodology for scoping reviews, the search will be conducted in: MEDLINE(R) ALL (OvidSP), Embase (OvidSP), CINAHL (EBSCOHost), APA PsycInfo (OvidSP), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (OvidSP), Web of Science, and Applied Social Sciences Index & Abstracts (ProQuest). A manual search of the reference lists of the retrieved articles will be conducted to capture all relevant studies for potential inclusion. A year limit of January 2000-June 2022 will be applied to retrieve most current peer-reviewed articles. No search filters or language limits will be used, but only publications in English and French will be eligible for inclusion. Interventions include but are not limited to: psychotherapy, educational sessions, home visitation, etc. Outcomes include but are not limited to: (1) harms of IPV among survivors (eg, revictimisation) and (2) adverse perinatal outcomes (eg, preterm birth). Interventions will be excluded if they target the perpetrator or child(ren) alone. Titles and abstracts of included studies will be screened in duplicate. Full-text documents will be extracted and reviewed by two independent reviewers. Conflicts between reviewers will be resolved by a third independent reviewer. Findings will be presented with descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required for this scoping review. The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations. STUDY REGISTRATION Open Science Framework (OSF) registry (https://osf.io/e294r) in Centre for Open Science (OSF) on 27 May 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fu
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karine Fournier
- Health Science Library, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Niève Seguin
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly Cobey
- Open Science and Meta-Research Program, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kari Sampsel
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malia S Q Murphy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shi Wu Wen
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Walker
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Newborn Care, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine A Muldoon
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Mikhael V, Ghabi R, Belahmer A, Kadi R, Guirguis N, Gutzeit A, Froehlich JM, Ferreira E, Higgs T, Dufour MM, Theoret V, Hebert M, Turgeon J, Balcom MC, Khurana B, Matoori S. Intimate partner violence: Defining the pharmacist’s role. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2023; 156:63-70. [PMID: 36969310 PMCID: PMC10034523 DOI: 10.1177/17151635231152450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Andreas Gutzeit
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, and the Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Breast Center St. Anna
| | - Johannes M. Froehlich
- Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland; the Clinical Research Group, Klus Lab Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ema Ferreira
- Faculté de Pharmacie
- Département de pharmacie, CHU Ste-Justine, Montreal, Quebec
| | | | | | - Valerie Theoret
- Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec
| | - Martine Hebert
- Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec
| | - Joane Turgeon
- Faculté de l’éducation permanente, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec
| | | | - Bharti Khurana
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Corley A, Perrin N, Geiger K, Remy MM, Glass N. Exploring caregivers' gender attitudes' influence on adolescent health in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: A mixed methods study. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3700-3720. [PMID: 35442156 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2049848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmentally important phase in one's life. However, restrictive gender attitudes that gain increased importance during adolescence prevent many from reaching their health and development potential. The objective of this study is to explore associations between caregiver gender attitudes and adolescent psychosocial health, school attendance, and food security in a sample living in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a region that has experienced persistent poverty and nearly thirty years of insecurity. A mixed methods design was selected for this research. Quantitative results were combined with qualitative focus group discussion results to provide new insight into how caregiver gender attitudes might influence adolescent health and development. Findings from the research suggest that more gender equitable caregiver attitudes are associated with fewer reports of internalising behaviour and greater food security in adolescent girls. No significant associations were found between caregiver gender equality attitudes and adolescent prosocial behaviour or school attendance. Focus group discussions supported some quantitative findings while refuting others. Participants suggested that adolescent girls with caregivers who endorse more equitable gender attitudes experience less psychological control and witness less conflict and violence between caregivers in their home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Perrin
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keri Geiger
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mitima Mpanano Remy
- Programme d'Appui aux Initiatives de Développement Economique au Kivu (PAIDEK), Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Wekerle C, McQueen KCD, Barker B, Acai A, Smith S, Allice I, Kimber M. Indigenous Service Provider Perspectives of an Online Education Module to Support Safe Clinical Encounters about Family Violence in Canada. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16061. [PMID: 36498135 PMCID: PMC9736319 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Given colonial genocide, Indigenous peoples are rightfully reticent to disclose their experiences of family violence to practitioners working within mainstream health care and social services. Health care and social service providers (HSSPs) have varied formal education on providing trauma-and-violence informed care to Indigenous and non-Indigenous families affected by family violence, including intimate partner violence and child maltreatment. The purpose of this study is to understand and describe the perspectives of Six Nations of the Grand River community members on the relevance of an education module to support HSSPs to provide physically and emotionally safe care to Indigenous families affected by family violence. Two-Eyed Seeing and Two Row Wampum approaches guided our qualitative study. Twenty-one (66.7% women) Indigenous HSSPs completed a semi-structured interview; 15 identified as a regulated HSSP, nine as a Knowledge Keeper/Cultural Holder, and three as a HSSP trainees. Conventional content analysis guided the development of codes and categories. The Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action (VEGA)-Creating Safety education module was described as having elements consistent with Indigenous experiences and values, and supportive of Indigenous peoples seeking care from HSSPs for family violence related concerns. Participants described several suggestions to better adapt and align the module content with the diversity of values and beliefs of different Indigenous Nations. Collectively, the Creating Safety module may be used as an educational adjunct to Indigenous-focused, cultural safety training that can support HSSPs to provide physically, emotionally, and psychologically safe care to Indigenous peoples who have experienced family violence. Future work needs to consider the perspectives of other Indigenous communities and Nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wekerle
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
- Optentia Research Unit, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, BAHT 132, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | | | - Bronwyn Barker
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, BAHT 132, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Anita Acai
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Savanah Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Ilana Allice
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, BAHT 132, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Melissa Kimber
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, BAHT 132, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
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15
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McTavish JR, Chandra PS, Stewart DE, Herrman H, MacMillan HL. Child Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence in Mental Health Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192315672. [PMID: 36497747 PMCID: PMC9735990 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) and child maltreatment (physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and children's exposure to IPV) are two of the most common types of family violence; they are associated with a broad range of health consequences. We summarize evidence addressing the need for safe and culturally-informed clinical responses to child maltreatment and IPV, focusing on mental health settings. This considers clinical features of child maltreatment and IPV; applications of rights-based and trauma- and violence-informed care; how to ask about potential experiences of violence; safe responses to disclosures; assessment and interventions that include referral networks and resources developed in partnership with multidisciplinary and community actors; and the need for policy and practice frameworks, appropriate training and continuing professional development provisions and resources for mental health providers. Principles for a common approach to recognizing and safely responding to child maltreatment and IPV are discussed, recognizing the needs in well-resourced and scarce resource settings, and for marginalized groups in any setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill R. McTavish
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 293 Wellington St. North, Hamilton, ON L8L 8E7, Canada
| | - Prabha S. Chandra
- NIMHANS Hospital, Hosur Rd, near Bangalore Milk Dairy, Hombegowda Nagar, Bengaluru 560029, Karnataka, India
| | - Donna E. Stewart
- Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth St, 7EN229, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Helen Herrman
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Orygen, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Harriet L. MacMillan
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 293 Wellington St. North, Hamilton, ON L8L 8E7, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Health Sciences Centre 3A, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
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Kimber M, Vanstone M, Dimitropoulos G, Collin-Vézina D, Stewart D. Researching the Impact of Service provider Education (RISE) Project - a multiphase mixed methods protocol to evaluate implementation acceptability and feasibility. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:135. [PMID: 35780156 PMCID: PMC9250197 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and social service providers receive limited education on recognizing and responding to family violence. With adequate education, providers could be prepared to identify individuals subjected to family violence and help reduce the risk of associated impairment. Informed by the Active Implementation Frameworks, our research will determine the scope of strategies needed for the uptake and sustainability of educational interventions focused on family violence for providers. It will also determine the acceptability, feasibility, and proof-of-concept for a new educational intervention, called VEGA (Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action), for developing and improving primary care provider knowledge and skills in family violence. METHODS This paper details the protocol for the Researching the Impact of Service provider Education (RISE) Project. The RISE Project follows a sequential multiphase mixed method research design; qualitative and quantitative data are being collected and integrated over three conceptually and methodologically linked research phases. Activities primarily occur in Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. Phase 1 uses a sequential exploratory mixed method research design to characterize the scope and salience of learning and implementation needs and preferences for family violence education. Phase 2 will use an embedded mixed method research design to determine whether VEGA technology supports providers to achieve their family violence learning goals with effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction. Phase 3 will use a concurrent mixed method research design to determine acceptability, feasibility, and proof-of-concept for evaluating whether VEGA improves primary care providers' knowledge and skills in family violence. This final phase will provide information on implementation strategies for family violence education in the "real world." It will also generate data on provider recruitment, retention, and data completeness, as well as exploratory estimates of the effect for provider outcome measures proposed for a randomized controlled trial. DISCUSSION The RISE Project comprehensively integrates an implementation approach to improve family violence education for the health and social service professions. It will provide important information about factors that could influence the uptake and effectiveness of a health profession's educational intervention into the real world, as well as provide foundational evidence concerning the tenability of using a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impact of VEGA in primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kimber
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience, McMaster University, BAHT 132, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada. .,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Gina Dimitropoulos
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, MacKimmie Tower 413, 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Delphine Collin-Vézina
- School of Social Work, McGill University, 3506 Rue University #300, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Donna Stewart
- Centre for Mental Health, University of Toronto and University Health Network, EN-7-229, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Çürük GN, Özgül E, Alkanat HÖ. Psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Readiness to Encounter Partner Abuse Patients Scale. J Adv Nurs 2022; 78:3860-3867. [PMID: 35765762 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Partner abuse is a global public health issue with both short- and long-term health effects. Healthcare professionals frequently encounter patients who experience partner abuse and should be knowledgeable about how to respond to these individuals. The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of The Readiness to Encounter Partner Abuse Patients (READI) Scale. DESIGN A descriptive, methodological and cross-sectional design was used. METHODS Data were collected with a sociodemographics form and the READI-T Scale between 13 December 2021 and 5 January 2022. The study sample comprised nursing students (n = 323) at or over the age of 18 years and accepting to take part in the study. The linguistic and content validity and confirmatory factor analysis were used to assess the validity of the scale. The reliability of the scale was achieved using Cronbach's alpha, item-total correlations and test-retest. RESULTS The READI-T Scale had a content validity index of 0.99 and adequate sensitivity. The factor loadings ranged from 0.63 to 0.84 for the self-efficacy sub-dimension, from 0.82 to 0.91 for the emotional readiness sub-dimension, from 0.47 to 0.81 for the motivational readiness sub-dimension and from 0.28 to 0.64 for the partner abuse knowledge sub-dimension. The CFA showed that the model had a good fit (x2 /df = 1.792; GFI = 0.88; CFI = 0.94; RMSEA = 0.050). Cronbach's alpha was found to be 0.92 for the scale. CONCLUSION The READI-T Scale is a valid and reliable tool to determine whether Turkish nursing students are knowledgeable enough to encounter partner abuse patients. IMPACT This scale can be used to determine the training needs of healthcare professionals on partner abuse and may be useful as a pre-and posttest to determine the effects of partner abuse education programs. Thus, this scale may also assist early identification of persons who have a risk for partner abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülsüm Nihal Çürük
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ecem Özgül
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey
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18
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Loncar N, Scott KL. “The Average Counsellor Wouldn’t Know”: Exploring How General Health Practitioners Understand and Respond to Domestic Violence. Can J Nurs Res 2022; 55:153-164. [PMID: 35726162 PMCID: PMC10061613 DOI: 10.1177/08445621221107296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individuals experiencing and perpetrating intimate partner violence (IPV) are frequently in contact with general health and mental health services. Health service providers, including nurses, thus have a key role in identifying and responding to initial indicators of IPV risk. Purpose The present study provides descriptive information about current assessment and intervention practices of health and mental health service providers when patients are presenting with concerns about IPV. Methods A secondary data analysis of interviews with general health practitioners (n = 17) were coded and dominant themes analyzed through thematic analysis. Results The present study uncovered ways in which IPV-related risks are, and are not, recognized and responded to. A metaphorical visual display in the form of a “domestic violence supply room” depicts the level of access and degree of competency described by practitioners in respective areas of practice. Within reach for all practitioners is the knowledge of factors that increase risk and vulnerability to IPV. Out of reach is a comprehensive understanding of the needs of children and perpetrators as well as the consistent ability to consider intersectionality and be reflexive when working with culturally and linguistically diverse populations. The step ladder to improved IPV response, including formal supports such as training and procedures, is frequently described as lacking. Conclusions A consistent and empirically supported approach to IPV assessment and response is rare to find across generalist service provision. Although service providers possess basic knowledge of risk factors, organizational direction is needed to allow providers to address IPV confidently and effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Loncar
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Katreena L. Scott
- Faculty of Applied Psychology, Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women and Children, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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19
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Kimber M, McTavish JR, Vanstone M, Stewart DE, MacMillan HL. Child maltreatment online education for healthcare and social service providers: Implications for the COVID-19 context and beyond. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 116:104743. [PMID: 32980151 PMCID: PMC7513691 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Evidence indicates that healthcare and social service providers (HSSPs) receive inadequate education related to recognizing and responding to child maltreatment. This is despite the fact HSSPs are identified as an important factor in the primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of this childhood exposure. The need for online education for HSSPs' is highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and will continue to be relevant afterward. The objective of this commentary is to provide an overview of: (a) educational interventions for HSSPs' related to recognizing and responding to child maltreatment; (b) the development of VEGA (Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action), which is an online platform of educational resources to support HSSPs to recognize and respond to child maltreatment; and (c) the RISE (Researching the Impact of Service provider Education) project, which is an ongoing multi-province evaluation of VEGA in Canada. It is important to consider ongoing ways that HSSPs can receive education related to recognizing and responding to child maltreatment. The virtual implementation of VEGA and the RISE Project provide a necessary opportunity to continue to increase the capacity of Canada's HSSPs to adequately and safely recognize and respond to child maltreatment, while simultaneously advancing education scholarship for the field of child maltreatment and which will have relevance for the COVID-19 context and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kimber
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MIP Suite 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Jill R McTavish
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MIP Suite 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, DBHSC 5003E, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Donna E Stewart
- Centre for Mental Health, University of Toronto and University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth Street, EN-7-229, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Harriet L MacMillan
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, and Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MIP 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
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