Objective: This session proposes to describe the evaluation and results of a community-based program targeted at the prevention and occurrence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in a predominately Latino, low income, inner-city setting in California. Methods: The project evaluated, Proyecto Cambio (Project Change) is an inter-generational, culturally-competent program that consists of school and community-based activities. School activities target elementary and high school students through an 8-session curriculum focusing on interactive, art-related activities. Community activities target adolescents ages 13-18 and adults eighteen and older and consist of a 12-week curricula that focuses on the development and carrying out of a community-action effort targeting IPV prevention. All program components target theoretically based situational factors such as alcohol use, access to weapons and social support; and mediating outcomes such as adherence to traditional gender roles, communication and conflict resolution skills. Associations between situational variables and mediating outcomes are examined through logistic regression models. This evaluation also incorporates qualitative approaches such as face-to-face interviews and focus groups to further explore the program's effect on the targeted community. Results: Exposure to and direct experience with partner violence was reported across all age groups targeted by the program. Survey results indicate a substantial decrease in acceptance of violence and less adherence to traditional gender roles in dating relationships. Furthermore, an increased assurance to seek out services and intent to report IPV cases to teachers/ health care professionals are reported. Evaluation successes and challenges, policy implications for funding and program development prioritization are discussed.
Learning Objectives: Describe the evaluation and results of a community-based program targeted at the prevention and occurrence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in a predominately Latino, low income, inner-city setting in California
Keywords: Adolescents, Violence Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.