NCJ Number
217342
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2007 Pages: 141-158
Date Published
February 2007
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study explored Latinos’ beliefs and perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Oklahoma City, OK as part of a research project to develop culturally appropriate IPV services for the Latino population.
Abstract
The findings revealed that IPV among Latinos generally had the same psychological, physical, and sexual characteristics as IPV found in other ethnic groups. The Latino population in Oklahoma City perceived IPV as a problem associated with multiple dimensions, many potential causes, and negative consequences. In fact, compared to reported prevalence rates, participants in the current sample overestimated the actual frequency of IPV among Latinos. According to participants, family and friends preferred not to become involved with IPV situations yet family members were expected to, and often did, provide support for victims. The findings suggest several directions for the development of culturally appropriate interventions, including the need for expanded IPV prevention awareness efforts. The research involved 10 focus group interviews with 77 male and female Latino participants residing in Oklahoma City. Participants were recruited from a Latino community agency’s clients as well as via flyers, radio announcements, referrals from churches, and word of mouth. Focus group interviews were conducted by a bilingual experienced interviewer of Salvadorian origin and focused on terms and definitions for IPV, and perceived prevalence, causes, and consequences of IPV. Interviews were also conducted with 13 victims and 7 perpetrators of IPV and focused on their experiences with known risk factors for IPV, help-seeking behaviors, and barriers to services. Interviews and focus group discussions were transcribed and coded according to emerging themes. Future research should explore differences in IPV among subgroups of Latinos. Tables, references