NCJ Number
211524
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 11 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2005 Pages: 1319-1340
Date Published
October 2005
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This study explored the context of violence and the perceptions of violent experiences among a sample of sexually-active, substance abusing women who had recently experienced violence.
Abstract
One of the most salient risks posed to impoverished women is that of interpersonal violence. This study used both quantitative and qualitative methods to gain an understanding of impoverished women’s experiences and perceptions of violence. The study was part of a larger study examining violence, substance, and HIV risk among women living in temporary shelters and low-income housing in Los Angeles County. Computer-assisted, face-to-face structured interviews were conducted with 172 women drawn from a larger probability sample of 898 impoverished women recruited from Los Angeles County; the current sample met the following criteria: (1) had at least 1 sexual partner; (2) engaged in any alcohol or drug use; and (3) experienced at least 1 episode of physical or sexual violence. Forty-one participants also completed an in-depth interview focusing on their worst violent episode. Results indicated that rape and self-blame were common experiences among women living in temporary shelters. Additionally, while women in shelters were more likely to face instrumental aggression from a variety of perpetrators, women who had housing were more likely to face hostile partner aggression. Sheltered women were more likely to report that their worst violent episode occurred at the hands of a stranger. The findings have implications for violence prevention and treatment services, including the need for secure housing and income to lower the risk of interpersonal violence among women. Tables, references