Understanding feminism: Considerations for nurses working to end violence against women

Abstract

Violence against women is a pervasive and serious human rights and public health problem worldwide. As interdisciplinary research teams try to address the effects of this health problem of which the effects transcend all women, nurses are at the forefront. Using a feminist philosophy and methodology to explore violence against women is one way to uncover new knowledge to address this health epidemic. In this paper, we will review the basic concepts of feminism and provide examples of viewing violence research and forensic nursing practice through this theoretical lens. These perspectives provide a foundation for understanding feminism and facilitating nurses' awareness as they consider careers in research and practice. Through this lens, nurses who are helping to ease the burden of violence in our global society may affect change in women's lives.

The role of nurse practitioners in outreach services and facilitating access for marginalized adult women in British Columbia

“…Nursing from a feminist perspective allows NPs to consider how unique women are and that they may need a wide-range of services to improve their health and guide them on the journey of healing (Fontenot & Fantasia, 2010). It is imperative that women do not become dependent on the NP but rather an environment is created for women so they can come to realize their own needs with the support of the NP.…”

“…Empowering women also entails actively involving them in their care plan, which will shift the power imbalance back to the women (Fontenot & Fantasia, 2010). Fontenot and Fantasia further explain by directly and purposefully involving women in their care plans, women will be encourage to reclaim some of the power and control they have lost through violence.…”

“…A number of sources emphasize the importance of methodology that ensures research be conducted in a way that allows women's voices to be heard in a respectful atmosphere, and in a non-hierarchical environment, and in this way ensuring high quality findings (Campbell & Wasco, 2000;Fontenot & Fantasia, 2010;Im, 2007 of which result in poor health outcomes and a significant burden on government resources (Badger & Behler-McArthur, 2003;Kurtz et al, 2008). The role of the NP is situated within this gap in service and can be adjusted to facilitate access for all populations to a higher quality of health care.…”