Survivor Experiences Living in an Intimate Partner Violence Shelter in the United States in 2022: Implications for the COVID-19 Endemic and Beyond

Abstract

This study examines the lived experiences of survivors of IPV ( n = 13) living in IPV shelters in the Southern United States in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study makes recommendations for researchers and service providers that can be applied to other public health and environmental emergencies. Descriptive statistics were analyzed for the demographic questions and the participants’ responses to the COVID-19 impact scale. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interviews. Most participants reported moderate to severe impact. Thematic analysis yielded three key themes: (a) ongoing COVID-19 disruptions, (b) COVID-19 policy implementation, and (c) consequences of social distancing. As COVID-19 is constantly evolving and the United States is experiencing new outbreaks of other infectious diseases, shelters should consider developing and reviewing general infectious disease and disaster protocols, leveraging technology, and utilizing outdoor space when available.