Perceptions of the Availability, Accessibility, and Adequacy of Domestic Violence Services

Abstract

This study examined the perceptions of the availability, accessibility, and adequacy of domestic violence services. It was predicted that there would be differences in the perceptions of domestic violence services between victims using services, victims not using services, and non-victims. In addition, it was expected that the degree of use of services will positively correlate with the perception of services, and past use of services will predict current use of services. Participants included 160 adults from an urban city in a mid-western area of the U.S.A. recruited by contacting individuals based on police reports, residence in shelters, and use of the local library. As predicted, results indicated that there are differences between victims using services, victims not using services, and non-victims; victims not using services had significantly lower perceptions of domestic violence services than the other two groups; and past usage of services predicted current usage. Directions for future research are discussed.

Gender & Behaviour Vol.3 2005: 334-347