Assessing Accessibility to Domestic Violence Resources within Tarrant County: A Community-Based Study of Prevalence, Barriers, and Proposed Solutions

Date

2020

Authors

Das, Siddharth
Katamaneni, Varun
Bhachawat, Neal
Siddiqui, Umar
Nguyen, Jacqueline

ORCID

0000-0003-0390-7751 (Das, Siddharth)
0000-0001-9922-655X (Nguyen, Jacqueline)

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Abstract

Purpose: Intimate partner violence is a common issue affecting 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men in the U.S. Tarrant county has a higher incidence rate of 1 in 3 women. It is important to understand the impact of abuse on individuals and evaluate the accessibility of resources available. In this study, we aim to perform a systematic review of the resources available to people at a national, state, and local level. Methods: Our study determined which resources at the national, state, and local levels were most likely sought out by domestic violence victims from Tarrant county. From database searches, we selected and inquired various resources about those who sought their services and the barriers that victims typically face. Results: Locally, victims are able to access the following: National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, Texas Family Violence Program, Texas Council on Family Violence, Freedom House, and SafeHaven. The interplay of national, state, and local programs depends on local entities providing a strong structure for support and referral. For example, SafeHaven is often overwhelmed by those seeking temporary housing, who are then discouraged to seek out further programs or services. Conclusion: Despite the various resources offered to victims, there are many barriers such as distance, finances, social, and cultural factors that can hinder a victim's accessibility to these resources. The significance of these barriers is ultimately the social and health ramifications on victims: increased possibility of emotional distress and disease.

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