Application of the Health Belief Model Barriers to Identification of Domestic Violence Victims in the LGBTQ Population Jill Sears B.S., Shannon Simonovich Phd, RN Background Purpose Results In the LGBTQ community, Seelau S. and Seelau E. (2005) say, it’s difficult to accurately assess same-sex violence but experts estimate that rates are comparable to heterosexual couples. Seelau S. and Seelau E. (2005) further, that there have been roughly only 30 articles reporting data on same-sex domestic violence. Because so little is known, the CDC has taken the initiative to examine same-sex domestic violence. In 2010, the CDC identified that same-sex prevalence of domestic violence is equivalent to heterosexuals especially for bisexual women who are the most effected long term (“NISVS: An Overview of 2010”, n.d). Same-sex victims also report the negative impacts violence has had on their lives including: missing work, school, feeling fearful, and post-traumatic stress disorder (“2010 Findings on Victimization”, 2013). Clinicians perceptions of the perceived seriousness determined domestic violence victims treatment plan and care. Same-sex relationships are perceived as less serious causing victims to be under-treated. Ultimately causing many same-sex domestic violence victims to go unidentified. Time is also a contributor to the identification of victims. Due to patient volumes and real-time charting, many clinicians are unable to spend the time needed for patient disclosure. Perceptions of same-sex domestic violence and the time needed for disclosure, are two themes that emerge from the data. The purpose of this research project is to determine how perceptions affect identification of domestic violence victims in the LGBTQ and heterosexual communities. Conceptual Framework Application of the Health Belief Model Conclusion The integrative literature review, to-date, concludes two major emerging themes. First, the perception that same-sex domestic violence victims are less serious. That individuals are equally matched hence, neither party is vulnerable to victimization. Second, nurses/clinicians know the importance of screening patients, yet time precludes them from doing so. Real time charting, personal bias and fear of upsetting victims further, all factor into missed identification of domestic violence victims in same sex relationships. The lack of data clearly demonstrates the urgent need for ongoing research. Research that will investigate barriers, create screening tools that will increase identification. While, educating clinicians that domestic violence can happen to anyone. The key is to abandon perceptions and treat the person, not as a man nor a woman, but as a human being that needs to be holistically treated. Our eyes need to take the time to see what’s underneath and listen to what the patient isn’t telling us. Significance Due to limited research done on the prevalence of domestic violence in the LGBTQ community there is variability in the data. Recent data has suggested that 47% of lesbians and 29.7% of gay men have been victims of domestic violence while heterosexual prevalence rates average at 33% (Brown & Groscup, 2008). Banks and Fedewa (2011) suggest that same-sex relationships are most likely underreported due to to fear of discrimination, the negative social stigma attached, and prejudice (p. 196). Also, the individual may not be ‘out’ yet. They fear their friends and loved ones will turn on them. This fear leaves them isolated allowing the cycle of abuse to continue. In the US, there are around 2000 domestic violence shelters yet most are designated for heterosexuals, specifically women (National Network of End Domestic Violence, 2011). The LBGT community is lacking in domestic violence shelters designed specifically for their needs (Helfich & Simpson, 2005). Another critical barrier that needs to be examined is the perceptions and the role of the nurse/clinician. Methods A literature review consisting of an exhaustive search of articles that examine the two research objectives. These include: 1. Examine clinician’s perceptions of domestic violence victims in LGBTQ compared to heterosexuals. 2. Examine how perceptions create barriers to identification of domestic violence victims. The integrative literature review used to demonstrate what little information there is regarding clinicians’ perceptions of domestic violence in LGBTQ population. References Banks, J.R., & Fedewa, A.L., (2012). Counselors’ attitudes toward domestic violence in same sex-versus opposite relationships. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 40(4); 194-205 Brown, M. J., & Groscup, J. (2008). Perceptions of Same-sex Domestic Violence Among Crisis Center Staff. Journal of Family Violence, 24(2), 87-93. doi:10.1007/s10896-008-9212-5 Helfich, C. A., & Simpson, E. K. (2005) Lesbian survivors of intimate partner violence: Provider perspectives
on barriers to accessing services. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services.18(2),39-59. Seelau, S. M., & Seelau, E. P. (2005). Gender-Role Stereotypes and Perceptions of Heterosexual, Gay and Lesbian Domestic Violence. Journal of Family Violence, 20(6), 363-371. doi:10.1007/s10896-005-7798-4 Yonaka, L., Yoder, M. K., Darrow, J. B., & Sherck, J. P. (2007). Barriers to Screening for Domestic Violence in the Emergency Department. J Contin Educ Nurse The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 38(1), 37-45.