“Learning to use tools to stop the suffering”: A qualitative study of support groups for Hispanic women living with gender-based violence in Houston, Texas

Little is known about the effectiveness of interventions for preventing gender-based violence and/or abuse, especially in Hispanic populations. The paper examines the support group intervention provided by a Houston area community-based organization that assists families, primarily women and children, living with gender-based violence and/or abuse. In-depth interviews and internal documents were used to examine the structure and processes of the support group intervention. Thirty interviews were conducted with Hispanic women who participated in the intervention about their experiences with the support group. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed to identify common themes relating to women's experiences. Overall, the women enjoyed the benefits of the support group and its offerings. Women are taught to manage situations and emotions, as well as to become less dependent on the abuser. These lessons take place within the context of the support group. Most importantly, women became more aware of their self-worth and value, and most make steady progress toward achieving self-sufficiency and making changes within their family. It appears the underlying hypothesis of the support group—that helping women who are experiencing gender-based violence and/or abuse by providing information and interpersonal support can change the victim's behavior and impact the dynamics within her family—is correct. Given the positive response to the support group intervention, it is clear that this and other programs should continue to reach out into the community and offer a safe haven for Hispanic women living with gender-based violence and/or abuse.