Underserved Populations Affected by Domestic Violence

by Child Welfare Information Gateway

(Page 6 of 10)

The diversity of victims of domestic violence includes such special populations as gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals as well as persons with physical, developmental, and sensory disabilities. Their minority status or special needs, in addition to their victimization, have left these groups largely unattended in community responses to domestic violence.

While historically domestic violence has not been perceived as a significant problem in some underserved populations, research indicates this may not be the case. For instance, a recent study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health indicates that the rates of domestic violence experienced by urban gay and bisexual men may be comparable to that of heterosexual women. This study found that 34 percent of these gay men were psychologically abused by a partner, 22 percent were physically abused, and 5 percent were sexually abused. Other studies also estimate that 20 to 35 percent of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons experience intimate partner violence. Unfortunately, there are usually little or no available resources or services for these populations. Domestic violence shelters do not house abused men (although there may be safe houses or arrangements with particular hotels), service providers rarely have specialized knowledge regarding gay and lesbian issues in abusive relationships, and physically disabled women who need assistance with daily activities or medications cannot be adequately cared for in most shelter settings. Shelters are not the only existing form of domestic violence intervention. Caseworkers also should be aware of other services such as advocacy, support groups, or counseling that are available.

Disabilities can include mobility, sensory, and cognitive impairments, as well as mental illness. They cover a broad range of severity and visibility to others. Individuals with disabilities are vulnerable to different abusive actions and often are more easily isolated from potential sources of help. In addition to abusive acts anyone might suffer, people with disabilities may be subjected to:

• Having medical treatment or medications withheld;
• Being prevented from using assistive devices;
• Receiving inadequate or no care for personal hygiene;
• Rough handling when care is provided;
• Not being provided access to information that may increase their independence or autonomy.

The disability often affects an individual's capacity to protect him- or herself or to escape a situation of imminent danger. For instance, studies have reported a history of sexual abuse experienced by 25 percent of adolescent girls with mental retardation, 31 percent of individuals having congenital physical disabilities, and 36 percent of multi-handicapped children admitted to psychiatric hospitals. Unfortunately, many people with disabilities are conditioned to believe that enduring certain abuses is an inevitable part of having a disability. Too often, they are afraid to discuss or report abuse because the perpetrator is also their primary caretaker. Some additional barriers for individuals with disabilities in reporting abuse include:

An increased risk of being institutionalized. If the perpetrator is the primary caregiver and no other viable caregivers are available, being admitted into an institution may be the victim's only option.

An increased risk of losing custody of his or her children, particularly if the perpetrator is no longer in the home or if the disability is perceived to impact the victim's level of parenting skills.

A fear of being perceived as less credible than the perpetrator because of the disability, particularly when the disability impacts the individual's speech.

The misconception that abuse against people with disabilities is expected or justified. Some view people with disabilities as difficult to care for and believe that harsh, abusive treatment is appropriate or necessary to manage them.

CPS caseworkers should pay special attention to the risks and obstacles faced by these unique groups and ensure that their assessments and case plan recommendations address these issues. For instance, referrals to gay and lesbian services may be an option as opposed to traditional domestic violence service programs. A victim in a wheelchair will need accommodation at a service program or shelter, such as doorways that are wide enough for the chair and a ramp to gain access to and from the building.

Poverty

Domestic violence can affect a victim's ability to be financially self-sufficient. Domestic violence and poverty are connected and statistics show that victims of domestic violence are over represented in the welfare system. Unquestionably, a lack of viable job skills, education, and income presents huge challenges for victims. Low-income victims who want to leave their violent relationship are left with few and, often, less desirable choices. Homelessness and unsafe housing are common realities for low-income victims and their children who escape domestic violence. Thus, it is critical that CPS caseworkers address financial barriers faced by victims and link them to economic services such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, vocational skills training, job retention, and educational support.

About the Author

www.childwelfare.gov
Formerly the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information and the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse, Child Welfare Information Gateway provides access to information and resources to help protect children and strengthen families. A service of the Children's Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.