Date of Conferral

12-1-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Julie Lindahl

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global issue that negatively affects humanity. The harmful effects of IPV often result in lifelong consequences for victims. Researchers have consistently identified women and children as the primary victims of IPV, although men can also be affected. The social stigma around men seeking formal help as victims is that they must endure physical, emotional, financial, sexual, and psychological abuse in intimate relationships. Because psychological abuse is the most common form experienced by male IPV victims, there is a higher prevalence of IPV within the Black community. However, research on help-seeking behaviors among Black men in mental health remains limited. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of clinicians who treat Black men affected by IPV. The study was guided by Sue’s multidimensional cultural competency, which emphasizes multicultural competence in psychology at the individual, professional, organizational, and academic levels. The study involved nine English-speaking clinicians working with Black male IPV victims. Data were collected through semistructured interviews via Zoom, using open-ended questions. Results indicated that clinicians often lack sufficient training, resources, and access to education necessary to effectively treat Black male IPV victims. These findings highlight the need for developing targeted training and resources tailored to their unique needs.

Included in

Psychology Commons

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