First Advisor

McGrath, Jack

College

College for Professional Studies

Degree Name

MS Criminology

School

School of Humanities & Social Sciences

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Number of Pages

36 pages

Abstract

This qualitative study explored perceptions of community-based advocates in Jefferson County, Colorado and their experience assisting victims of intimate partner violence against women. Open-ended interview questionnaires were collected from community-based advocates and used to derive the perceptions community-based advocates hold with regard to access to community resources, ability to establish social support, improve quality of life, and ultimately reduce re-abuse. Results of these perceptions were combined with and compared to previous secondary research by Deborah Bybee and Cris Sullivan. This research of victims' perceived effectiveness combined with data collected from advocates' perceived effectiveness allowed for further insight into intimate partner violence and the perceived effectiveness of advocacy in reducing re-abuse. It was determined that advocates perceived their involvement with IPV victims is positive for victims when compared to those not receiving advocacy. Advocates perceived they were unable to reduce re-abuse, however, it was stated by advocates that they hoped by providing safety planning and other resources that they would empower female IPV victims to make positive future decisions regarding their abusive relationship. The advocates' combined with Bybee and Sullivan's research illustrated that women who experienced strain have various barriers that inhibit their ability to leave an abusive relationship. Robert Merton's Strain Theory framed the foundation for explaining intimate partner violence (IPV) against women.

Date of Award

Spring 2012

Location (Creation)

Colorado (state); Denver (county); Denver (inhabited place)

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

Download

Share

COinS