Counseling Latina Battered Women: A Qualitative Study of the Latina Perspective

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the experience of Latina survivors of domestic violence for information that might help counselors become more attuned to the needs of Latina women. The results highlight the importance of particular cultural variables, including gender socialization and familism. Implications and recommendations for counselors are also discussed.Esta investigacidn cualitativa estudio las experiencias de Latinas sobrevivientes del maltrato domestico, buscando inforrnacion que pudiera ayudar a 10s consejeros a concientizarse mas a las necesidades de las mujeres latinas. En 10s resultados resalta la importancia de 10s variables culturales particulares, que incluyen la socializacion de genero y el familisrno. Tambien se subrayan recomendaciones para consejeros/as. n the United States today, domestic violence is an issue that touches women of all ages, races, ethnicities, and classes

Identifying Predictors of Instrumental and Reactive Aggression Among Low-Income Minority Adolescent Girls

“…However, Rodriguez (2003) noted that Latino/Latina cultures commonly mark socialization practices by gender. Moreover, socialization patterns within Latino/Latina families often promote adherence to traditional gender roles (Kasturirangan & Williams, 2003;Raffaelli & Ontai, 2004;Rodríguez, 2003). For example, many Latino/Latina families promote different messages to girls and boys.…”

“…Moreover, the quality of parental relationships appears to play a particularly important role for reducing risk of IOA. Socialization practices in Latino families often promote traditional gender role expectations to girls; accordingly, girls are regarded as more physically and emotionally dependent on their parents, and therefore, in need of greater protection (Kasturirangan & Williams, 2003;Raffaelli & Ontai, 2004;Rodríguez, 2003). Adherence to these traditional gender roles might reduce Latinas' risk for IOA.…”

Perceptions and Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence Among Hispanic College Students

“…In particular, the acceptance of traditional gender roles leads to the acceptance of domestic violence and the willingness of abused Latinas to remain in abusive relationships (Kasturirangan & Williams, 2003;Vandello, Cohen, Grandon, & Franiuk, 2009). At the same time, Ahrens et al (2010) questioned the extent to which Latin women and men in the United States actually adhere to traditional gender-role norms.…”

“…Based on their work with Latina domestic violence survivors, Kasturirangan and Williams (2003) observed two conceptions of marianismo. The first is summed up by the comment of one woman that "las mujeres latinas de nuestra cultura somos educadas para servir al hombre" (Latina women of our culture are educated to serve men" p. 169).…”

“…According to Kasturirangan and Williams (2003), the ability to derive pride in suffering represents a positive facet of marianismo that counselors should attempt to understand. They also viewed strong family bonds as a resource for abused women as opposed to an obstacle to leaving an abusive relationship.…”