Those links were not for you. Stop quoting me.
Let's Discuss Violence Against Black Women
- Thread starter bcrusaderw
- Start date
AntiVenom
Bedwench & Armchair Militant Killer
Where could I find links that would back up your earlier claim?
I'd like to spread word and promote further discussion about this terrible ordeal. Peer reviewed stats would help substantiate the issue.
wet landscapes
ghost
http://www.idvaac.org/press/factsheet.html
some info (seems kinda old)
huffpost article
http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/4157659
some info (seems kinda old)
huffpost article
http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/4157659
wet landscapes
ghost
African American Attitudes toward
Domestic Violence and DV Assistance
Vetta Sanders Thompson, Ph.D. & Anita Bazile, Ph.D.
Current data indicate that despite a more than two-decade decline, African American women continue to experience a higher rate of intimate partner homicide compared to women of other races. In addition, African American women's rates of intimate partner violence are higher than every other group's, except American Indian women (U.S. Department of Justice, 2001). Contrary to expectation, African American women are more likely to make reports of intimate violence to the police than women of other racial/ethnic groups (Rennison, 2001). National surveys of prevalence and a growing body of literature on domestic violence among African American women have highlighted the need for data on attitudes toward DV services, perceptions of treatment/intervention needs, and evaluation of DV programs in the African American community. Advocates and practitioners have voiced concern over the lack of research that addresses why African American women are less likely to access victim services (National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center, 2001).
There are few studies examining the needs of African American women experiencing domestic violence. Studies suggest that African American women do use domestic violence services (Thomas, 2000; Sullivan & Rumptz, 1994; Gondolf, Fisher, McFerron, 1988). Gondolf, et al. (1988) noted that most women, regardless of race or ethnicity, sought the same amount but different kinds of help, such as financial support from social services agencies or family, shelter services, counseling from ministers, friends, or agencies; as well material items from friends, family, or agencies. This early study using Texas shelter data (N=5708) indicated that African American women were more likely to call a minister or the police. Sullivan & Rumptz, (1994) suggest that African American women may seek services at the point that violence becomes life threatening, with African American women reporting more severe abuse in the 6 months prior to entering a shelter than European American women.
African American women benefit from domestic violence services. For instance, Sullivan and Rumptz (1994) indicated that African American women who received advocacy services were more satisfied with their stay and had a higher quality of life at follow-up. These services included assistance with education and acquisition of household items. After services were received, African American women expressed intent to continue receiving advocacy services (Gondolf, et al., 1988).
African American women's ability to escape a violent relationship has been compromised by the effects of discrimination, economic hardship, and social inequity (Sullivan & Rumptz, 1994). Sullivan & Rumptz found that African American women were more likely to live below poverty level, to have more children living with them, to be the sole provider for their family, and were less likely to have a car. They noted that health issues, material goods (furniture, household goods and supplies), and financial issues were most likely to be listed as needed resources in the first ten weeks of a shelter stay. Furthermore, financial and social issues affected African American women, as well as other women of color, more adversely than European American women (Sorenson, 1996). For example, African American shelter residents participating in focus groups complained that shelters did not provide food that acknowledged different cultural preferences or appropriate grooming aids for African American women.
The National Black Survey, which examined African American help seeking behaviors for mental and emotional distress (Jackson, Neighbors, & Gurin, 1986), is the most comprehensive study of help seeking in the African American community. Study findings indicate that services were sought as a result of a physician, family member, or friend's referral. In the absence of more specific data, it seems important to carefully examine the beliefs, attitudes, understandings and expectations of the African American community at large regarding help seeking, including assistance in cases of domestic violence. The authors of this study consider community attitudes toward help seeking in cases of domestic violence in the African American community through the use of focus groups.
Methods
The focus group is a qualitative research strategy that uses a semi-structured discussion format. The group facilitator begins the process and moves the discussion along with the aid of discussion questions. However, the specific content and order of content are driven by participants' responses (Stewart & Shamdasani, 1990). It is a technique used to explore understudied issues or topics.
Participants
Twenty-seven, mixed sex focus groups were conducted in an urban, Midwestern city from May 2000 through mid-November 2000. Groups ranged in size from 3 to 12 members. Participants were volunteers. Recruitment was via newspaper advertisement and posted announcements. Participants received a twenty-dollar stipend for their participation. Participants were not permitted to participate in more than one group. A total of 201 African Americans (134 females and 66 males, one participant did not provide information) participated in discussions.
A brief demographic questionnaire was administered prior to participation. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 74 years, with a mean age of 35.8 years (SD = 12.9 years). They reported an average of 14 years of education, with a range of 8 to 22 years; and reported income ranging from 0 to $150,000, with a mean of $19,322 and a median income level of $18,000.
Procedure
An African American female, psychologist with eight years of experience conducting focus groups with African Americans led the sessions. A counseling graduate student assisted. The discussion of domestic violence was conducted in the context of mental health in the African American community; therefore participants did not necessarily have personal experience with domestic violence. Focus groups were 1 1/2 hours long and examined the mental health and domestic violence service utilization in the African American community. Four probes focused on domestic violence:
All discussions were audiotaped. The audiotapes were transcribed and independently reviewed by the authors. Shortly after group discussions, an assistant completed detailed field notes based on the sessions and debriefing discussions. Based on review of the transcripts, field notes, and debriefing notes, impressions were consolidated into a list of themes and issues.
Key Findings
Lack Knowledge of
Cultural Values and Beliefs That Inhibit Disclosure
Community Attitudes That Inhibit Disclosure and Intervention
Financial Concerns
Treatment Needs
Cultural Sensitivity
Implications
There is a need for education on domestic violence. Issues related to definitions, warning signs, behavioral cycles, and resources are required. The media outlets and institutions prominent in the African American community must be targeted. Because African Americans rely on family, friends, and the church for information and referral, outreach must be broad. Women will likely consult with one of these sources for support prior to action. Advocates must find ways to facilitate this social support system throughout a woman's effort to address her domestic violence experience.
Diversity and sensitivity require ongoing awareness and action. Shelters must systematically examine staff composition and training. Advocates and shelter workers must be knowledgeable of cultural values, community attitudes, and social experiences that may affect reactions and responses to domestic violence. This knowledge should be differentiated from myths and stereotypes related about domestic violence in the African American community. Communication strategies that facilitate positive and supportive interactions between advocates/workers and African American women, who have experienced DV, should be included in training modules. Shelter rules and policies should be examined to discern how they might impact diverse populations, and how explanations or implementation can be made more culturally sensitive.
Conclusion
Participants were aware of the need for services that addressed domestic violence in the African American community. Despite this recognition, lack of knowledge, cultural issues, and community attitudes were noted to impede action by abused women and support from friends and family. These barriers can and must be addressed.
References
Gondolf, F (1988). Battered women as survivors: An alternative to treating learned helplessness. MA: Lexington Books.
Hampton, R. L. and Gelles, R. J. (1994). Violence toward Black Women in a Nationally Representative sample of Black Families. Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 25, 105 _ 119.
Jackson, J. S., Neighbors, H. & Gurin, G. (1986). Findings from a National Survey of Black Mental Health: Implication for Practice and Training. In M.R. Miranda & H. L. Kitano (ed.). Mental Health Research and Practice in Minority Communities: Development of Culturally Sensitive Training Programs. Washington, D. C.: U.S. Government Printing Press.
National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center (2001). Fostering collaborations to prevent violence against women: Integrating findings from practitioner and researcher focus groups. Charleston, SC: Author.
Rennison, C. (2001). Violent victimization and race, 1993-98. Bureau of Justice Statistics Special Report (NCJ Publications #, NCJ176354). Washington, D. C.: U. S. Department of Justice.
Stewart, D. W. & Shamdasani, P. N. (1990). Focus groups: Theory and practice. Newbury Park: Sage.
Sorenson, S. B. (1996). Violence against women: Examining ethnic differences and commonalties. Evaluation Review, 20, 123-145.
Sullivan, C. M. & Rumptz, M. H. (1994). Adjustment and needs of African American women who utilized a domestic violence shelter. Violence and Victims, 9, 275-286.
Thomas, E. K. (2000). Domestic Violence in African American and Asian American communities: A comparative analysis of two racial/ethnic minority cultures and implications for mental health service provision for women of color. Psychology: A Journal of Human Behavior, 37, 32-43.
U. S. Department of Justice (2001).Criminal Victimization Bureau of Justice Statistics
Domestic Violence and DV Assistance
Vetta Sanders Thompson, Ph.D. & Anita Bazile, Ph.D.
Current data indicate that despite a more than two-decade decline, African American women continue to experience a higher rate of intimate partner homicide compared to women of other races. In addition, African American women's rates of intimate partner violence are higher than every other group's, except American Indian women (U.S. Department of Justice, 2001). Contrary to expectation, African American women are more likely to make reports of intimate violence to the police than women of other racial/ethnic groups (Rennison, 2001). National surveys of prevalence and a growing body of literature on domestic violence among African American women have highlighted the need for data on attitudes toward DV services, perceptions of treatment/intervention needs, and evaluation of DV programs in the African American community. Advocates and practitioners have voiced concern over the lack of research that addresses why African American women are less likely to access victim services (National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center, 2001).
There are few studies examining the needs of African American women experiencing domestic violence. Studies suggest that African American women do use domestic violence services (Thomas, 2000; Sullivan & Rumptz, 1994; Gondolf, Fisher, McFerron, 1988). Gondolf, et al. (1988) noted that most women, regardless of race or ethnicity, sought the same amount but different kinds of help, such as financial support from social services agencies or family, shelter services, counseling from ministers, friends, or agencies; as well material items from friends, family, or agencies. This early study using Texas shelter data (N=5708) indicated that African American women were more likely to call a minister or the police. Sullivan & Rumptz, (1994) suggest that African American women may seek services at the point that violence becomes life threatening, with African American women reporting more severe abuse in the 6 months prior to entering a shelter than European American women.
African American women benefit from domestic violence services. For instance, Sullivan and Rumptz (1994) indicated that African American women who received advocacy services were more satisfied with their stay and had a higher quality of life at follow-up. These services included assistance with education and acquisition of household items. After services were received, African American women expressed intent to continue receiving advocacy services (Gondolf, et al., 1988).
African American women's ability to escape a violent relationship has been compromised by the effects of discrimination, economic hardship, and social inequity (Sullivan & Rumptz, 1994). Sullivan & Rumptz found that African American women were more likely to live below poverty level, to have more children living with them, to be the sole provider for their family, and were less likely to have a car. They noted that health issues, material goods (furniture, household goods and supplies), and financial issues were most likely to be listed as needed resources in the first ten weeks of a shelter stay. Furthermore, financial and social issues affected African American women, as well as other women of color, more adversely than European American women (Sorenson, 1996). For example, African American shelter residents participating in focus groups complained that shelters did not provide food that acknowledged different cultural preferences or appropriate grooming aids for African American women.
The National Black Survey, which examined African American help seeking behaviors for mental and emotional distress (Jackson, Neighbors, & Gurin, 1986), is the most comprehensive study of help seeking in the African American community. Study findings indicate that services were sought as a result of a physician, family member, or friend's referral. In the absence of more specific data, it seems important to carefully examine the beliefs, attitudes, understandings and expectations of the African American community at large regarding help seeking, including assistance in cases of domestic violence. The authors of this study consider community attitudes toward help seeking in cases of domestic violence in the African American community through the use of focus groups.
Methods
The focus group is a qualitative research strategy that uses a semi-structured discussion format. The group facilitator begins the process and moves the discussion along with the aid of discussion questions. However, the specific content and order of content are driven by participants' responses (Stewart & Shamdasani, 1990). It is a technique used to explore understudied issues or topics.
Participants
Twenty-seven, mixed sex focus groups were conducted in an urban, Midwestern city from May 2000 through mid-November 2000. Groups ranged in size from 3 to 12 members. Participants were volunteers. Recruitment was via newspaper advertisement and posted announcements. Participants received a twenty-dollar stipend for their participation. Participants were not permitted to participate in more than one group. A total of 201 African Americans (134 females and 66 males, one participant did not provide information) participated in discussions.
A brief demographic questionnaire was administered prior to participation. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 74 years, with a mean age of 35.8 years (SD = 12.9 years). They reported an average of 14 years of education, with a range of 8 to 22 years; and reported income ranging from 0 to $150,000, with a mean of $19,322 and a median income level of $18,000.
Procedure
An African American female, psychologist with eight years of experience conducting focus groups with African Americans led the sessions. A counseling graduate student assisted. The discussion of domestic violence was conducted in the context of mental health in the African American community; therefore participants did not necessarily have personal experience with domestic violence. Focus groups were 1 1/2 hours long and examined the mental health and domestic violence service utilization in the African American community. Four probes focused on domestic violence:
- Participant perceptions of attitudes toward domestic violence in their community.
- Barriers to seeking assistance and services.
- Perceptions of needed services,
- Knowledge of existing services.
All discussions were audiotaped. The audiotapes were transcribed and independently reviewed by the authors. Shortly after group discussions, an assistant completed detailed field notes based on the sessions and debriefing discussions. Based on review of the transcripts, field notes, and debriefing notes, impressions were consolidated into a list of themes and issues.
Key Findings
Lack Knowledge of
- Long term consequences of DV experience (everything is fine once a woman leaves)
- Services (their location and costs)
- Warning signs that violence is escalating
Cultural Values and Beliefs That Inhibit Disclosure
- African American women are strong (pride) - deny violence, vulnerability
- African Americans are responsible for themselves and others around them; as African Americans we take care of ourselves - self-blame, self-sacrificing, embarrassed, ashamed if unable to control or endure situation
- African American women are responsible for keeping family together - avoid leaving (Have to consider effect of leaving on the children. How can you stop him from seeing his children?)
- African Americans "don't tell their business" - deny, or avoid disclosure
- Religious views (God will take care of it; pray; The Lord will change him)
Community Attitudes That Inhibit Disclosure and Intervention
- Definitions of abuse (pushing and shoving are not serious)
- Distrust of institutions (concerns related to police response to AA women, legal system involvement, and agency attitudes)
- Loyalty issues, family pressure that inhibit self-disclosure and action (How can I (you) have him arrested? How could you leave him?).
- I did nothing wrong. Why should I leave?
- Rely on family, friends, and church for resources and referrals
Financial Concerns
- How can I (you) survive?)
Treatment Needs
- Community based, self-help support groups and networks
- Self -esteem building to assist in leaving
- Support and advocacy services to assist with issues after leaving (housing, job training, children's psychological needs)
- Treatment, designed specifically for AA men, without stereotypes
Cultural Sensitivity
- Sense that advocates and shelter workers understand that violence is not more acceptable in the African American community
- Advocates and shelter workers who are perceived as comfortable communicating with AA women in a respectful, non-paternalistic manner
- Diversity among advocates and shelter workers
- Awareness of expectations sometimes incongruent with safety and well being based on community attitudes and values
- Awareness that AA women respond to shelter rules within the context of a history of a controlling oppressive relationship and an oppressive society.
Implications
There is a need for education on domestic violence. Issues related to definitions, warning signs, behavioral cycles, and resources are required. The media outlets and institutions prominent in the African American community must be targeted. Because African Americans rely on family, friends, and the church for information and referral, outreach must be broad. Women will likely consult with one of these sources for support prior to action. Advocates must find ways to facilitate this social support system throughout a woman's effort to address her domestic violence experience.
Diversity and sensitivity require ongoing awareness and action. Shelters must systematically examine staff composition and training. Advocates and shelter workers must be knowledgeable of cultural values, community attitudes, and social experiences that may affect reactions and responses to domestic violence. This knowledge should be differentiated from myths and stereotypes related about domestic violence in the African American community. Communication strategies that facilitate positive and supportive interactions between advocates/workers and African American women, who have experienced DV, should be included in training modules. Shelter rules and policies should be examined to discern how they might impact diverse populations, and how explanations or implementation can be made more culturally sensitive.
Conclusion
Participants were aware of the need for services that addressed domestic violence in the African American community. Despite this recognition, lack of knowledge, cultural issues, and community attitudes were noted to impede action by abused women and support from friends and family. These barriers can and must be addressed.
References
Gondolf, F (1988). Battered women as survivors: An alternative to treating learned helplessness. MA: Lexington Books.
Hampton, R. L. and Gelles, R. J. (1994). Violence toward Black Women in a Nationally Representative sample of Black Families. Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 25, 105 _ 119.
Jackson, J. S., Neighbors, H. & Gurin, G. (1986). Findings from a National Survey of Black Mental Health: Implication for Practice and Training. In M.R. Miranda & H. L. Kitano (ed.). Mental Health Research and Practice in Minority Communities: Development of Culturally Sensitive Training Programs. Washington, D. C.: U.S. Government Printing Press.
National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center (2001). Fostering collaborations to prevent violence against women: Integrating findings from practitioner and researcher focus groups. Charleston, SC: Author.
Rennison, C. (2001). Violent victimization and race, 1993-98. Bureau of Justice Statistics Special Report (NCJ Publications #, NCJ176354). Washington, D. C.: U. S. Department of Justice.
Stewart, D. W. & Shamdasani, P. N. (1990). Focus groups: Theory and practice. Newbury Park: Sage.
Sorenson, S. B. (1996). Violence against women: Examining ethnic differences and commonalties. Evaluation Review, 20, 123-145.
Sullivan, C. M. & Rumptz, M. H. (1994). Adjustment and needs of African American women who utilized a domestic violence shelter. Violence and Victims, 9, 275-286.
Thomas, E. K. (2000). Domestic Violence in African American and Asian American communities: A comparative analysis of two racial/ethnic minority cultures and implications for mental health service provision for women of color. Psychology: A Journal of Human Behavior, 37, 32-43.
U. S. Department of Justice (2001).Criminal Victimization Bureau of Justice Statistics
Blackout
just your usual nerdy brotha
My only experience is my cousin who's boyfriend beat her up.
But that was dealt with accordingly by my fam so not only are they broken up, he knows better than to touch my family.
That aside I did have a bad experience when I saw a black couple arguing outside and I tried to intervene and she supported him like she has Stockholm syndrome.
If there is a solution for that then I'm all ears.
As for the ladies who try to escape that is unfortunate that they end up getting killed and I would love to see something done to prevent that.
But that was dealt with accordingly by my fam so not only are they broken up, he knows better than to touch my family.
That aside I did have a bad experience when I saw a black couple arguing outside and I tried to intervene and she supported him like she has Stockholm syndrome.
If there is a solution for that then I'm all ears.
As for the ladies who try to escape that is unfortunate that they end up getting killed and I would love to see something done to prevent that.
wet landscapes
ghost
I posted a few things you could check outMy only experience is my cousin who's boyfriend beat her up.
But that was dealt with accordingly by my fam so not only are they broken up, he knows better than to touch my family.
That aside I did have a bad experience when I saw a black couple arguing outside and I tried to intervene and she supported him like she has Stockholm syndrome.
If there is a solution for that then I'm all ears.
As for the ladies who try to escape that is unfortunate that they end up getting killed and I would love to see something done to prevent that.
Blackout
just your usual nerdy brotha
Thank you.
I'm curious as to what the male members of the family did when the women made her domestic violence known before she was killed.
Just like the earlier example I gave if any of the ladies in my family reported domestic violence we be on his ass so fast it ain't even funny.
wet landscapes
ghost
even if someone you love did something fukked up, iit's hard to see people turn on them, especially when you are involved
I also think it's a gradual thing
I don't think the guys start up flat out beating them up either, their perpective warps gradually
Blackout
just your usual nerdy brotha
That's the thing. Let one of us even find out he touched her.
He himself is gonna get touched.
I guess because my extended family is close but trust me the cousin I mentioned earlier had Stockholm syndrome and we still dealt with the issue and she is much better now.
Male relatives need to step up and protect the women in their family.
wet landscapes
ghost
they do, I've seen some videosThat's the thing. Let one of us even find out he touched her.
He himself is gonna get touched.
I guess because my extended family is close but trust me the cousin I mentioned earlier had Stockholm syndrome and we still dealt with the issue and she is much better now.
Male relatives need to step up and protect the women in their family.
Blackout
just your usual nerdy brotha
Well we need more if this problem is as common as OP said it was.they do, I've seen some videos
We need to promote tighter family bonds even up to extended family so we can help decrease domestic violence.
That's my suggestion
I got two sisters so I'll go after any man who touches them.
wet landscapes
ghost
we also need to create an environment where men and women are more comfortable with opening up to others when they go through it in generalWell we need more if this problem is as common as OP said it was.
We need to promote tighter family bonds even up to extended family so we can help decrease domestic violence.
That's my suggestion
I got two sisters so I'll go after any man who touches them.
Blackout
just your usual nerdy brotha
The good thing is that when you have tighter family bonds nothing gets hidden.
One family member does something and then the whole family will find out and deal with it as a family.
Think of you and your extended family all going by the grandparents house on holidays to spend time with the extended fam. Think of the grandmother and grandfather as the great elders of the family. Think of the extended fam meeting all of the time and taking about everything.
We need more of that since I've noticed that I don't see much of it anymore this leaving these unfortunate women not much places to run to when they are in need of protection.
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Dirty_Jerz
Ethiop
Sub