NCJ Number
226489
Journal
Journal of Aggression, Matreatment & Trauma Volume: 18 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2009 Pages: 162-181
Date Published
March 2009
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The conceptual framework of intersectionality is used to deconstruct the help-seeking and help-receiving behaviors of abused persons of color with disabilities, specifically intimate partner violence partners.
Abstract
Intersectionality is a concept that has emerged from such disciplines and theories as postmodern, global, and feminism; cultural and critical race studies; racial/ethnic studies; multiculturalism; and narrative theory. In using an intersectional framework, one would view race, class, gender, ethnicity, and disability as social, political, economic, and cultural constructs that classify, categorize, and construct the social value that is assigned to individuals according to various components. The authors use this framework of intersectionality to examine the help-seeking and help-receiving behaviors of abused persons of color with disabilities. Two case examples are presented, which demonstrate the influence of a combination of race, gender, accent, immigration status, sexual orientation, disability, and socioeconomic status in two women’s decisions about help-seeking and their experiences based on those decisions. The case examples highlight the women’s perceived experiences based on their decisions to seek assistance from formal helping systems. Limitations are noted in some existing models of system response to persons of color with disabilities, as well as describe programs that are more attentive to intersectionality. References