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Perspectives on Regional Differences and Intimate Partner Violence in Canada: A Qualitative Examination

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Abstract

Few studies have examined the impact of intimate partner violence (IPV) within rural and northern communities. The current study addressed gaps within the literature by gathering perspectives from community service providers and academic researchers in order to increase understanding about the unique needs of IPV survivors within geographically diverse regions. Interviews were conducted with ten participants from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and Northwest Territories. Interviews focused on the unique needs of IPV survivors within each region, gaps that exist in meeting those needs, as well as questions pertaining to a larger research study entitled, Rural and Northern Community Response to Intimate Partner Violence. Results revealed several core themes relating to the unique challenges faced by IPV survivors within each region, as well as barriers to accessing services within rural and remote communities. Results also highlighted important considerations for future researchers, such as challenges that can arise when conducting research within geographically remote locations. Findings may help inform future development and implementation of services for IPV survivors residing in geographically diverse locations across Canada.

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Acknowledgments

This research was supported by funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council/Community-University Research Alliance (SSHRC/CURA).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Pkwy, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada

    Kimberley G. Zorn, Melissa Anne Wuerch, Nichole Faller & Mary Rucklos Hampton

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  1. Kimberley G. Zorn
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  2. Melissa Anne Wuerch
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  3. Nichole Faller
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  4. Mary Rucklos Hampton
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Correspondence to Kimberley G. Zorn.

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Zorn, K.G., Wuerch, M.A., Faller, N. et al. Perspectives on Regional Differences and Intimate Partner Violence in Canada: A Qualitative Examination. J Fam Viol 32, 633–644 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-017-9911-x

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