The Impact of Societal Norms on Domestic Violence Community Outreach and Education

• In Event: Cultural and Community Influences on Violence and Prevention

Abstract

Research illustrates the impact of social, cultural, and community norms and beliefs on perceptions of domestic violence and survivors’ help-seeking behaviors. However, little is known about the extent to which these norms and attitudes are incorporated into community education and outreach programs aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness about domestic violence. To fill this gap, this research uses semi-structured in-depth interviews with service providers, to explore 1) their perceptions of how social, cultural, and community norms and beliefs impact DV victim-survivors’ help-seeking behaviors, 2) the types of community education and outreach programs they implement, and 3) to what extent the programs address these norms and beliefs. This exploratory study will provide insights into improving community education and outreach to better address societal norms that hinder help-seeking by survivors of domestic violence.

Authors

• Olivia Liquori, The Citadel

• M. Kristen Hefner, The Citadel