Deep Listening and Relationality: Cross-cultural Reflections on Practice With Young Women Who Use Violence

Abstract

ABSTRACT Young women who use violence in their interpersonal, family, and domestic relationships commonly exist as a cross-over cohort, simultaneously victims and perpetrators, characteristically disadvantaged and disengaged and lacking accessible trauma-informed and culturally responsive interventions. This paper presents cross-cultural reflections on work with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal young women who use violence. It explores the tensions in this work of honouring histories and context and acknowledging female agency, choice and control. Informed by Yarning processes, the paper intentionally foregrounds Aboriginal knowledge and experience. In doing so, it highlights the power and potential of Deep Listening and relational practice for recognising the impact(s) of trauma resulting from intergenerational intersections of gendered oppression, structural racism, and social inequalities as drivers of female violence. IMPLICATIONS Aboriginal ways of knowing and doing have important contributions to make to practice with young female perpetrators of violence Deep Listening and relational approaches can support safety and connection necessary for healing, change, and growth.