NCJ Number
223984
Journal
Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: 2008 Pages: 22-39
Date Published
2008
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article examines issues related to intimate partner violence and Latina women in New Jersey.
Abstract
This article, notes a preliminary analysis, provides an overall understanding of the type and severity of abuse suffered by examining Latina victims in New Jersey, a State that has a remarkably diverse and numerous Latino population. Recent studies have stressed the seriousness of male-female intimate partner violence suffered by Latina women and the need for more comprehensive and culturally sensitive services for this population. The study was part of a broader exploratory, cross sectional research project on male-female intimate partner violence (MFIPV) among this group. Socioeconomic and residence statuses were considered, and self-help seeking behaviors and the challenges of women's social isolation were addressed. In addition, risk factors related to MFIPV, such as substance abuse and witnessed/experienced violence in childhood, were explored, as the understanding of these characteristics and risk factors were seen to be critical to the design of prevention and intervention programs. The information was obtained from a sample of 73 Latina immigrants in New Jersey who were victims of MFIPV, ranging in age from 20 to 72 years of age, almost all of whom used Spanish as their primary language. The results were obtained through descriptive analysis of the data collected by two psychologists with expertise in MFIPV. Table, figures, and references