NCJ Number
185946
Date Published
1999
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This chapter explores some of the options and difficulties that battered women have within the welfare system, the complexities of the options, and the confidentiality issues that arise for domestic violence victims.
Abstract
Through case studies, the author examines the circumstances of women who have had to use welfare services to become independent of their abusers, what the barriers have been for them, and how they have responded to possible revictimization by the welfare system or other systems, such as the criminal justice system. The discussion refers to abusive behaviors, some illustrated on the Power and Control Wheel, as well as prevention and intervention strategies. Response to the outlined domestic violence complexities is formulated as specific recommendations to State and community agencies, based on the author's experience as a domestic violence shelter executive director, a State domestic violence specialist, and State coordinator for the Governor's Cabinet Council on Domestic Violence. Specific recommendations for welfare case managers cover several areas of concern, including assessment, privacy or confidentiality, evidence, universal education, and training. It is recommended that States commit the resources necessary for local domestic violence programs and for welfare service programs to provide victims with the help they need to be safe and economically secure. Referral services must be developed, be accessible, and respond in culturally sensitive ways. All departments, human or social services, and welfare services, must do all they can to reduce the risk to victims of domestic violence and to document programs that work. 3 notes and 6 references