Although many programs and organizations in various communities have focused on targeting intimate partner violence (IPV), these efforts have not eradicated the problem. A focus group study was conducted among IPV program directors and counselors to explore intervention and prevention strategies used for different types of IPV. In addition, theses experts were asked to examine results from an online survey of 129 community members’ responses to various scenarios of IPV.
Survey participants reported that the most likely response to psychological abuse and proprietary control was calling 911; however, expert focus group participants disclosed that calling 911 was usually only effective in situations of physical violence. In situations of physical abuse, the majority of survey participants said they would tell the person to leave the relationship. In contrast, experts argued that leaving a relationship should be viewed as a long-term process, which involves providing resources such as shelter, counseling and job placement for the victims and their children. Experts utilized different types of prevention and intervention strategies depending on the situation and appropriate social and cultural norm. Results from the focus group show the importance of the cyclical research process. Finding suggest we must bridge the gap between people’s typical responses to situations of IPV and what experts deem as competent responses to these situations. We will discuss ways that medical, school and community programs can help youths and adults increase their awareness of signs of IPV and apply appropriate tactics to deal with different situations of abuse.
