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Serendipitous Intervention: Qualitative Findings from the Study of Dynamic Patterns of Husband-to-Wife Abuse

  • RESEARCH AND INTERVENTIONS FOR VICTIMS OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE
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Abstract

This mixed methods study observed day-to-day dynamics of husband-to-wife abuse. Daily reporting and weekly interaction with a research associate appeared to offer great benefit. A sample of 20 women age 20–62, were enrolled. Participants at high risk for abuse were excluded. Women who met the inclusion criteria completed a baseline questionnaire. Participants were instructed to complete a daily telephone assessment for 60 days to track the prior day’s abuse severity and potential violence predictors. Participants also completed a qualitative end-of-study interview. Women reported an increased awareness of community resources, heightened self-esteem and coping empowerment. Seven women (35 %) left their abusive relationships. Women who left were more educated but had lower socio-economic status (SES). Participants in common-law marriages were also more likely to leave. The unforeseen consequences of daily reporting coupled with regular contact with an engaged listener were positively associated with a woman’s readiness for change.

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Acknowledgments

This study was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (#0525026). The authors would like to thank the San Antonio Family Justice Center and the San Antonio Battered Women’s Shelter for their support. A special thanks to Diandrea Garza for her technical assistance in the preparation and submission of this manuscript. We especially thank each survivor for their courage to share. To those quick to listen and slow to speak.

For Terry, Thelma, and Sonia.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Family & Community Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive MSC 7795, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA

    Johanna Becho, Sandra K. Burge, David A. Katerndahl, Robert L. Ferrer & Robert C. Wood

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  1. Johanna Becho
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  2. Sandra K. Burge
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  3. David A. Katerndahl
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  4. Robert L. Ferrer
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  5. Robert C. Wood
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Correspondence to Johanna Becho.

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Becho, J., Burge, S.K., Katerndahl, D.A. et al. Serendipitous Intervention: Qualitative Findings from the Study of Dynamic Patterns of Husband-to-Wife Abuse. J Fam Viol 28, 243–251 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-013-9493-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-013-9493-1

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