No abstract

There is a paucity of research that systematically examines how food behaviors play a role in intimate partner violence (IPV). Therefore, this qualitative study aims to answer the broad question, what role do food behaviors play in intimate relationships? Food behavior narratives emerging from participants of court-mandated domestic violence (DV) offender treatment programs were analyzed using grounded theory methods. Five themes emerged. Two described inflammatory/harmful roles: (1) food as a trigger for anger and violence and (2) food as a mechanism of “othering.” One theme described the role of food behaviors in promoting unequal and equal relationships: (3) food as an embodiment of gender roles. Two themes described reconciliatory/beneficial roles: (4) food as a mechanism of recognition and (5) and food as a representation of group rapport. Food behaviors can escalate into conflicts but can also be used as a tool to resolve conflicts. Limitations and the need for future research are further discussed.

No abstract

Millions of displaced survivors of persecution are navigating the impacts of both human rights violations and being forced to flee their homes, communities and nations. Their broad, pervasive, and complex psychosocial needs can develop into chronic and severe issues if they are not addressed. There is limited literature on clinical interventions and approaches that have a primary goal of promoting psychosocial health of displaced survivors of targeted persecution. The Orientation Group, developed by the Bellevue/NYU Program for Survivors of Torture in New York City, is one brief psychoeducational and skills-based group intervention aiming to support the psychosocial wellbeing of displaced survivors of torture, political oppression and other forms of persecution. Although not yet empirically studied, this group intervention has more than a decade of anecdotal support. This paper provides a reflective account of the Orientation Group and offers recommendations for enhancing the intervention.

No abstract