This study examines the relationship between cultural beliefs and the utilization of services among Arab immigrant women. All participants (N = 67) reported at least one act of partner abuse resulting in a consultation with various formal services. Significant correlations were found between the holding of traditional attitudes toward gender in general and wife battering in particular by the women and the utilization of formal mental (r = .32, p = or< .001), social (r = .29, p < .05), and legal (r = .38, p =or < .001) services. The study's limitations, policy implications, and the impacts of 9/11 on the Arab immigrant community and on their use of services are discussed.

In this exploratory study, eight focus groups were conducted, utilizing 83 participants. A structured, but flexible, interview guided by trauma theory was designed to solicit perspectives on the impact of the September 11, 2001, attacks on the Arab American community in New York City. Participants identified several common areas of concern, including fear of hate crimes, anxiety about the future, threats to their safety, loss of community, isolation, and stigmatization. Barriers to services and current mental health needs were discussed. The results of this study may assist social workers and clinical psychologists in developing targeted mental health initiatives using community outreach strategies. This approach may enhance recovery and healing at the individual and community levels, particularly if services are provided by those who are culturally and linguistically competent and sensitive.

This study examined the relationship between race-based stress (racial harassment and discrimination) and PTSD in a sample of 102 New York Muslim men and women post-9/11 while controlling for gender. Bivariate, univariate, and stepwise regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Results of the study show that “feeling less safe” after the events of 9/11 emerged as the only significant predictor of PTSD (F = 10.32; p < .05). Gender discrepancies indicated that men and women differed in symptom expression and reactions. Whereas men were more likely to experience racial harassment, women were more likely to express fear of being in public places. Potential explanations, study limitations and implications are suggested.

No abstract

No abstract