Transcript Domestic and Sexual Violence and its effects On the

Dilcia Colindres
Advocate for the Spanish-speaking community
Shelter for Help in Emergency (SHE)
HOTLINE: (434)293-8509
www.shelterforhelpinemergencies.org
What is Domestic Violence?
 Domestic violence is a pattern of
physically, sexually and/or
emotionally abusive behaviors used by
one individual to maintain power over
or to control a partner in the context of
an intimate relationship.
 In addition to the immediate trauma
caused by abuse, domestic violence
contributes to a number of chronic
health problems, including depression,
alcoholism and substance abuse, and
often limits the ability of women to
manage other chronic illnesses such as
diabetes and hypertension.
Statistics on DV in the Latino Community
 According to a study by DCJS, 48% percent of Latinas reported that their
partner’s violence against them had increased since they immigrated to the
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United States.
More than 1 in 3 Latino women who seek care in emergency rooms, injuries,
were injured by a boyfriend or spouse.
At least one in every 12 males has been victim of Domestic Violence.
Immigrant women often suffer higher rates of battering than U.S. citizens
because they may come from cultures that accept domestic violence or because
they have less access to legal and social services than U.S. citizens. Additionally,
immigrant batterers and victims may believe that the penalties and
protections of the U.S. legal system do not apply to them, and they are less
likely than other women to report the abuse.
Latinos at the Shelter for Help in Emergencies (Charlottesville):
 In 2007: 38 domestic violence adult victims were served
 In 2008: 49 domestic violence adults victims were served,
 As of today a total of 79 adult victims have been served*
Cultural Factors to consider when working
with Latino Victims of DV
 The value of familia (family) which emphasizes family unity and devotion to
family is a central cultural value. Aguantar (to put up with) something on
behalf of the family unit
 Belief that abuse can only be physical, which makes it more difficult for the
victim to identify domestic violence.
 Fatalistic view of events: Lo que dios mande (whatever God wills); Si dios
quiere (if God so wishes); Ni modo (there is nothing that can done) Sacrificial
and religiously fatalistic view of abuse: Es tu cruz (it’s your cross to bear).
 Machismo: the man is the one who makes the decisions, using violent
behavior to assert power and position; mujeriego (womanizer) or cantinero
(one who hangs out in bars) – both often viewed as acceptable in Latino
culture. However, violence and the mistreatment of women/significant others
is NOT an inherited or genetic trait
Domestic Violence Screening
in Health Care Settings
 Interview patients privately
 Pay attention to patients' non-verbal communication
 Provide an interpreter for clients who don't speak English. Do not use
anyone who accompanies a patient as an interpreter - especially their
partner or children.
 However, when using an interpreter problems can arise if a patient is afraid
that the information about the abuse will get back to her community. It may
be beneficial to explain the role of an interpreter and confidentiality
 Talking face to face is more effective than written patient questionnaires.
 Use simple language and examples of behaviors.
 Focus on specific behaviors rather than labeling the client as a victim of DV.
 Asses immediate safety needs
 Review options and provide referrals
 Ask the client how you can help her, rather than telling her what she should do
(give back some power and control)
 Offer positive messages: ABCD
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You are not Alone.
You are not to Blame.
You are not Crazy..
You don't Deserve to be abused
Barriers for Latino and Immigrant Victims of Domestic
Violence
 A misunderstanding about what
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defines domestic violence.
The victim's desire to preserve the
family leads to tolerance of abuse.
Language barriers and cultural
differences isolate the victim.
Victims are unaware of law
enforcement services, legal rights,
and the availability of social
resources.
Traditional male-female roles make
it difficult for victims to identify
abuse.
Fear that entering the health system
puts them at risk for deportation,
when in fact current immigration
laws protect abused wives.
 Lack of economic self-sufficiency
makes it difficult for victims to leave
violent situations.
 A distrust of the legal system arising
from their experiences with the
system in their native countries
 Victims fear the batterer
Shelter for Help in Emergency
Refugio para Ayuda en Emergencia
 Services:
 24 hours crisis hotline (434)293-8509
 Emergency shelter for abused women, their children and
abused men.
 Supportive counseling and case management
 Legal advocacy and court accompaniment
 Hospital accompaniment
 Educational programs about Domestic and Sexual Violence
 Information and referral to community services
 Cost - All the services are confidential and free of charge.
 Eligibility: No eligibility requirements.
 Areas Spanish Program Serves: PD10
 Contact person:
Dilcia Colindres: 434-963-4676 ext 4
[email protected]