Acculturative Stressors Among Undocumented Latina Survivors of IPV

• In Event: Lightning Talk: Race/Ethnicity, Crime, and Systemic Injustice

Abstract

A mixed-methods study aimed at supporting Latinas reporting intimate partner violence (IPV) to law enforcement. The study will explore how acculturative factors, including heightened deportation fears, impact reporting, and resource access. Using qualitative interviews with 20 survivors and quantitative surveys of 102 participants (51 undocumented and 51 documented Latinas), we will identify critical barriers and motivators for intervention. Surveys will use the Acculturative Stress Scale for International Students (ASSIS) and Perceptions of Police Scale (POPS) to assess acculturative stress and trust in law enforcement. Findings will inform culturally appropriate practices, including proactive policing and trauma-informed training for police officers. This pilot is critical to developing linguistically and culturally sensitive interventions that address the unique challenges faced by Latina IPV survivors.

Authors

• Sharon Gandarilla-Javier, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Noam Haviv, John Jay College of Criminal Justice