Inclusive, Culturally Competent Practices for Christian Faith Leaders in Responding to IPV Survivors with Disabilities

Abstract

This chapter describes inclusive, culturally competent practices for psychological providers and religious leaders providing support for survivors with disabilities of Christian faith backgrounds. There is little empirical data on pastoral response to intimate partner violence in women with disabilities (WWDs). Literature on pastoral response to women experiencing IPV is reviewed as well as models of disability and implicit biases against those with disabilities that faith leaders may unconsciously ascribe to and display in their interactions with those with disabilities. Next, the authors describe their qualitative study of responses (n = 19) to WWD experiencing IPV from a select sample of pastors noted for being welcoming of persons with disabilities. Finally, practical suggestions for providing support to WWD experiencing IPV are shared such as empowering the survivor as opposed to directing the survivor, especially being wary of ableism, pity, protectionism, and inaccurate stereotypes of WWDs.