Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Marites Pinon

Abstract

When women experience intimate partner violence (IPV), subsequent effects could impact their performance in the workplace, including physical illness, absenteeism, lack of focus, financial hardship, and other problems. Little information is available, however, as to whether there are long-term negative effects on the victims’ employment. The purpose of this quantitative study was to compare long-term job success as measured by the dependent variables of job satisfaction, unemployment, underemployment, and job stability among women who have experienced IPV in the past and those who have not. Trauma theory provided the framework for this study. Participants were recruited from women’s organizations and business and educational organizations. Data were collected from 247 participants online via Survey Monkey and analyzed using a MANOVA. Study results showed that women who experienced IPV at least five years previously demonstrated higher levels of underemployment and less job satisfaction than women who had not experienced IPV. This may indicate these survivors were more likely to be working at jobs that do not match their levels of skill and that those survivors are less likely to be satisfied in their jobs. The findings could lead to positive social change by providing greater understanding of employee needs and informing organizations how those needs can be met through longer support and development opportunities. Social service programs might also learn how to better help individual survivors of domestic violence gain greater job success through training and support groups addressing employment needs.

Share

 
COinS