NCJ Number
217340
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2007 Pages: 111-122
Date Published
February 2007
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the research literature on intimate partner violence (IPV) among Latinos.
Abstract
The review suggests that the prevalence of IPV among Latinos is similar to that found among non-Latino populations. In general, Latinas experiencing IPV are younger, less educated, and more economically disadvantaged than their non-Latino White counterparts. However, the nature and consequences of IPV among Latinos is similar to those of non-Latino populations and many of the associated risk factors are the same. Two noted differences in risk factors between Latino and non-Latino populations are that neither beliefs approving of IPV nor alcohol-drinking patterns significantly explain the occurrence of IPV among Latinos. Role strain, particularly as it relates to immigration and acculturation, and the importance of male dominance among Latinas experiencing IPV appear to be unique and important explanatory factors for IPV among Latinos. Despite the widespread prevalence of IPV among Latinos, few interventions have been developed and evaluated specifically for this population. The author cautions that any interventions designed for Latinos should take into account the factors that often lead to delayed help seeking behavior among Latinas experiencing IPV. Interventions should also address the fact that Latina IPV victims return to their abusers more often than non-Latino White women and in many cases prefer to stay with their abuser. Despite the equally high rates of IPV among Latinos, there is a limited amount of research on the factors associated with its occurrence. In particular, future research should focus on the effects of role strain and male dominance on IPV among Latinos. Note, references