Coping Resources of Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence: An Ecological Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25159/2415-5829/2197Keywords:
coping, ecological perspective, intimate partner violence, qualitative research, resources, supportAbstract
Intimate partner violence poses a major challenge for social workers worldwide and also in South Africa. A qualitative study was done from an ecological perspective with a sample of 20 abused women, with the goal of exploring and describing their coping resources. The data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews, and then transcribed and categorised. The first theme, significant others, was subdivided into three subthemes, namely family, friends and neighbours. The second theme yielded two subthemes, church and church members. The last theme, professional help, was divided into four subthemes: social case work, social group work, nursing sister and psychologist. It was concluded that some abused women utilise resources in order to cope with their abusive situation. A number of recommendations are also presented here.
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Accepted 2017-03-08
Published 2017-07-17
