Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Dr. Raymond Panas

Abstract

AbstractInterpersonal violence (IPV) is a complicated public problem that requires collaborative and coordinated strategies in order to address this issue effectively and appropriately. Although the court system has a significant role in their response, IPV is a complex issue for the justice system to address alone. Court system experiences may significantly impact survivors’ outcomes overall health and well-being. There are a limited number of studies showing that survivor experiences in the court have a significant impact on victim outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe the lived experiences of female IPV survivors who have encountered IPV, highlighting their perceived interaction with the justice system and its effect on their goals and overall health and well-being. Rappaport’s empowerment theory served as a motivational construct to help achieve IPV survivors’ goals. One-on-one in-person and telephone interviews occurred with a sample of 10 IPV survivors. Qualitative data analysis was conducted via hand-coding and use of NVivo software which entailed preparing, identifying, outlining, organizing, and analyzing the raw data obtained from one-on-one interviews. The findings suggest that many survivors’ courtroom experiences re-traumatized and posed risks to their safety and had an effect on their health and well-being. The experiences were complex and often unique, and the IPV survivors’ encounters had a lasting impact on their health and well-being. Analyzing experiences and interactions between women IPV survivors and judicial officers provided significant insight into how courtroom experiences can be improved, thereby contributing to positive social change.

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