Arrested Justice: The Multifaceted Plight of Immigrant Latinas who Faced Domestic Violence
This study documents and analyzes the experiences of Latina immigrants, predominantly Mexican women in Southern California, who faced domestic violence. Using a comparative case study methodology, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with residents of a battered women’s shelter and professional service providers. The study also administered questionnaires detailing demographic and self-help behavior information, and descriptions of the multiple challenges faced by this population. Findings revealed multiple and intertwining barriers that were described as structural, cultural, and institutional. Some of the most salient obstacles includes: language barriers, gender and economic inequality, and lack of knowledge of laws and services that can support them. In order to better address the unique challenges faced by Latina immigrants who are survivors or face domestic violence, governmental, educational, medical, and social institutions should collaborate in developing community based cultural-competent programs and policies that integrate the intersecting needs of Latina women in these circumstances.