Abstract
Sexual assault research has focused almost exclusively on urban areas, and research examining the experiences of expert service providers is nearly nonexistent. The purpose of this study was to add to the understanding of providers' experiences in working with sexually assaulted women in rural communities. Secondary victimization theory suggests that the nature of postassault expert interventions may have an adverse impact on victims. The focus of this hermeneutic phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of providers regarding their interactions with sexual assault survivors living in rural communities. Data were gathered from prosecutors, law enforcement, crisis center advocates, social workers, and victim-witness associates. Data analysis led to the identification of five significant themes: (a) rural-specific confidentiality issues, (b) resource needs in a rural setting, (c) the connection between victim blaming and low levels of reporting, (d) negative provider views of the community, and (e) smaller communities provided better victim care. Psychiatric nurses and mental health care systems have many opportunities to intervene with abused women in inpatient, outpatient, and other community settings. In primary and acute care setting, nurses should assess patients for a history of violence using multiple screening questions and should also educate victims and their families about available resources.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.