Health Care for Women International
Volume 31, Issue 4, 2010, Pages 345-364

Out of Africa: Coping strategies of african immigrant women survivors of intimate partner violence (Article)

Ting L.*
  • a School of Social Work, University of Maryland, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Academic IV, B364, Baltimore, MD 21250, United States

Abstract

We explored the coping behaviors of 15 immigrant African survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in the United States. Similarities and differences in coping strategies between African and other immigrant women were noted. Results from the qualitative analysis are that African immigrant survivors utilized multiple coping strategies including beliefs in spirituality and divine retribution, a future orientation, and a sense of self-efficacy. Acceptance/ endurance of abuse, which they believe was "normal" in male/ female relationships; minimization of the abuse; and avoidant behaviors and thoughts also were used. Informal and formal support/help seeking, and knowledge of available services empowered women. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are discussed. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

psychological aspect human survivor middle aged Survivors Adaptation, Psychological ethnology religion Spouse Abuse Self Efficacy United States Humans male Emigrants and Immigrants female adaptive behavior Africa self concept Spirituality Article adult partner violence migration

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77949372675&doi=10.1080%2f07399330903348741&partnerID=40&md5=b9a4af4116018e36ae5bc29f9d68be82

DOI: 10.1080/07399330903348741
ISSN: 07399332
Cited by: 32
Original Language: English