The Intersection of Disability, Diversity, and Domestic Violence: Results of National Focus Groups

Abstract

Using data from two national focus groups of 19 key informants, this article explores the unique issues faced by people with physical and sensory disabilities in accessing help for domestic violence, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of people of color with disabilities. In addition, this study explores the programmatic preferences of people of color with disabilities in seeking help in regards to domestic violence, and assesses the cultural competence, disability awareness, and domestic violence awareness of domestic violence service providers and disability organizations.

KEYWORDS:

• disability
• domestic violence
• diversity
• people of color
• cultural competence
• help seeking
• service providers
• race and ethnicity

This project was completed by the Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community at the University of Minnesota with the support and encouragement of the Office of Women's Health and the Administration for Children Youth and Families.

Notes

¹ We use “disabilities” in this study, while acknowledging that many Deaf people prefer being referred to as a cultural group rather than as people with a disability.