African American Women’s Readiness to Change Abusive Relationships

Why I Stayed/Left: An Analysis of Voices of Intimate Partner Violence on Social Media

“…While safety is always the primary concern when violence is discovered, clinicians can address this while still remaining respectful of the client's agency and decision process. Therapeutic discussions about decisions to leave or stay in an abusive relationship may seek to empower victims, but should not place the burden of responsibility onto the victim to change their partner (Bliss et al 2008;Eckstein 2011;Merchant and Whiting 2014). This can create embarrassment, shame, and self-blame (Eckstein 2011).…”

Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Perceived Relationship Safety as Predictors of Dyadic Adjustment: A Test of Mediation and Moderation

“…That is to say, those who have been exposed to traumatic events may be at increased risk to experience additional trauma in the future (Briere & Scott, 2006). Physical aggression and violence within the context of an intimate relationship has been shown to contribute to PTSD symptoms (Perez & Johnson, 2008) and those with a history of trauma may be less likely to leave abusive relationships (Bliss, Ogley-Oliver, Jackson, Harp, & Kaslow, 2008). Needless to say, the interaction of PTSD symptoms and relationship functioning is complex, and therefore worthy of further investigation.…”

“…Extant research demonstrates the occurrence of a cycle in which PTSD symptoms resulting from IPV compromise future safety (Bliss et al, 2008;Perez & Johnson, 2008). For example, Bliss et al (2008) found a negative relationship between PTSD symptoms and readiness for safety-oriented changes within abusive relationships in a sample of African-American women victims of IPV.…”

“…For example, Bliss et al (2008) found a negative relationship between PTSD symptoms and readiness for safety-oriented changes within abusive relationships in a sample of African-American women victims of IPV. Similarly, Perez and Johnson (2008) used a longitudinal design to explore the impact of PTSD on the severity of abuse experienced by women.…”

Providing Culturally Conscious Mental Health Treatment for African American Muslim Women Living With Spousal Abuse

“…Discussing how a client's Muslim and African American identities influence one another and affect her relationship with the abuser is an important consideration when creating a comprehensive plan. Affirming her faith may increase the effectiveness of a safety plan because spiritual well-being is a positive predictor of readiness to change (Bliss, Ogley-Oliver, Jackson, Harp, & Kaslow, 2008). A discussion of her faith may increase the client's level of self-liberation and encourage a sustained and healthy worldview (Prochaska et al, 1992).…”