Survivors of domestic violence (DV) have a wide range of needs when they seek help from DV programs. While there is growing evidence that advocacy and other supportive services for DV survivors are helpful for increasing wellbeing, little is known about the mechanisms that best promote these goals. This study sought to further understand the role of survivor advocacy and service duration on survivors' physical and mental health, safety, and needs. Structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 150 women recruited from 16 DV programs across seven regions in a southwestern state. Independent variables included overall service duration, time with advocate, and feelings of connection with advocate. Bivariate and regression analyses were conducted to test associations of the advocate-survivor relationship and length of time in services with physical, social, and psychological outcomes. The majority (75.8%) of survivors indicated decreases in abuse since obtaining services. Frequent needs included housing, counseling, and safety planning. Regression analysis indicates longer service duration and increased connection with an advocate were significantly associated with a greater number of survivor needs being met. No other independent variables were significant in regression models, but several covariates reached significance. This study adds to the growing and needed body of literature on survivors' experiences with DV services and associated outcomes. Advocates should prioritize connecting with clients in favor of a priori service goals based on time limits. Further study can be used to better understand health outcomes for survivors.
Housing and homelessness are frequent issues facing domestic violence (DV) survivors and their children. Several DV programs provide transitional housing (DVTH) to address the housing needs of DV survivors and their children. Despite wide use, little is known about the impact of DVTH, especially on child and parenting related needs and outcomes. Multiple structured interviews (82) were conducted with 27 parents with minor children living in DVTH in order to explore housing program experiences. Thematic analysis techniques produced three themes and seven subthemes about DVTH impact on parenting and child wellness. Overarching themes include: (1) DVTH helps to strengthen the parent–child relationship through a focus on family connection and health; (2). Transitional housing provides an opportunity for family stability via housing, material, and economic stability; (3). Time at DVTH allows family to access a diverse range of trauma-informed resources and social support to meet family goals. Barriers to these potential impacts are explored. Implications for practice with youth and parents include the need for extensive mental health and legal advocacy, programmatic models that emphasize resources, safety and the transition to permanent housing, and build on family strengths. Further research is needed to evaluate DVTH program outcomes.
Accessing stable housing is a basic need for intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors, and rapid rehousing programs are a critical way to address homelessness. However, little is known about survivor experiences, needs, and outcomes in rapid rehousing services within IPV agencies. This study uses an exploratory approach to understand the needs and experiences of 31 survivors using vouchers facilitated by an IPV program in the U.S. Southwest. Thematic analysis of structured interviews resulted in four summary themes: getting to housing, managing multiple needs, accessing support, and facing barriers. Practice and evaluation implications are discussed.
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