Stop the madness: Family violence is more than a family problem

In the U.S. 35.6% of women and 28.5% of men have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime. Family violence is not limited to violence between intimate partners (IPV), but rather can include all members of the family e.g., children and elders. Addressing IPV is central to combating family violence in that there are protective factors for the entire family. In this respect we decided to think global and act local in addressing this problem. To best inform program development, graduate students conducted a targeted needs and asset assessment (NA+A) with young adults, staff, and administrators at the PAL Center, in Muscoy, CA. Data were collected through observations, windshield surveys, literature reviews, six theory-based semi-structured key informant interviews, and two confirmatory focus groups. Data were coded, themed and analyzed using Grounded Theory methods. Emerging themes revealed that respondents felt that family violence is too sensitive for outside interference, and that intervening in a family violence situation is not the role of anyone outside the family. They suggested that there is a direct relationship between poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, idleness, and family violence, and the best ways to intervene is to empower family members in ways that would channel negative energy into more positive energies. They suggested program efforts should center on building self-esteem and social skills, conflict resolution, building positive relationships with law enforcement—all needed in strengthening the family structure. We developed, implemented, and evaluated a pilot program using process and impact evaluation for program improvement and sustainability.