Limited empirical data in the area of ethnic variation and family violence suggests a need for in-depth explorations of family violence in population subgroups. We conducted 23 key informant interviews with individuals from health care, education, criminal justice, and social services agencies. Key informants served or otherwise interacted closely with Latinos of Caribbean origin in a largely Latino New Jersey community. Interviews assessed perceptions of the extent and nature of family violence in the community's Latino populations and possible factors that influence family violence such as ethnicity and culture, social class, migratory stressors, and degree of acculturation. Also documented were existing resources and culturally appropriate intervention strategies. Interviews were conducted by one of two trained interviewers and were audio taped, transcribed, and analyzed using AtlasTi, a qualitative data analysis software program. Our analysis was guided by the ecological framework and existing literature on family violence in general and in Hispanics. Additional themes were drawn from the transcripts themselves. Findings suggest that partner and child abuse are the most common, or possibly the most visible, forms of family violence; with elder abuse considered as rare and most commonly occurring in the form of neglect and to a lesser extent, financial abuse. Socioeconomic pressures, acculturation, and alcohol and drug use were suggested as influencing all forms of family violence. The presentation will illustrate findings with quotes from key informant interviews groups and discuss the implications of the findings.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Identify the various types of family violence 2. Discuss cultural strengths that might protect against family violence in Latino populations; 3. Discuss cultural and economic stressors that might increase family violence in Latino populations
Keywords: Family Violence, Hispanic
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.