Date of Conferral
6-13-2024
Date of Award
June 2024
Degree
Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)
School
Human Services
Advisor
Dr.Barbara Benoliel
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a social and public health problem that affects millions of people each year regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, and sexual orientation. Although heterosexual IPV has been a topic of academic research, researchers have turned their attention to same-sex IPV. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals experience rates of IPV equal to or higher than rates reported by heterosexual individuals and have challenges seeking support. A qualitative case study approach was used to fill the identified gap in the literature about how Latina lesbians experience seeking support for IPV. The minority stress model provided a framework for the study. Zoom video conferencing was used to conduct interviews and collect data with six Latina lesbians who had been in an IPV relationship in the past. Data were analyzed for case similarities and repeating themes. The themes that emerged from content analysis were (a) the dilemma related to the decision to seek support for IPV, (b) finding support and access to help from friends and family, and (c) the cultural stigma related to finding support and accessing help. The results may contribute to social change and the social determinants of health by informing human service providers and directing better services and resources for Latina lesbians experiencing IPV.
Recommended Citation
Cepero, Patricia, "The Experiences of Seeking Help for Intimate Partner Violence in Latin Lesbian Relationships" (2024). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 16135.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/16135
