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Article
Patterns and Predictors of Service Use Among Women Who Have Separated from an Abusive Partner
Journal of Family Violence
  • Marilyn Ford-Gilboe, Western University
  • Colleen Varcoe, The University of British Columbia
  • Marianne Noh, Western University
  • Judith Wuest, University of New Brunswick
  • Joanne Hammerton, Western University
  • Eman Alhalal, Western University
  • Camille Burnett, University of Virginia School of Nursing
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2015
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1007/s10896-015-9688-8
Abstract

Using baseline data from a survey of 309 Canadian women recently separated from an abusive partner, we investigated patterns of access to health, social, legal, and violence-specific services and whether abuse history and social and health variables predict service use. We compared rates of service use to population rates, and used logistic regression to identify determinants of use. Service use rates were substantially higher than population estimates in every category, particularly in general and mental health sectors. Although women were confident in their ability to access services, they reported substantial unmet need, difficulty accessing services, and multiple barriers. The strongest unique predictors of use varied across service type. Health variables (high disability chronic pain, symptoms of depression and PTSD), low income, and mothering were the most consistent predictors. Service providers and policy makers must account for social location, abuse history, and health status of Intimate Violence (IPV) survivors. Strategies to enhance access to primary health care services, and to create a system of more integrated, accessible services, are required.

Citation Information
Marilyn Ford-Gilboe, Colleen Varcoe, Marianne Noh, Judith Wuest, et al.. "Patterns and Predictors of Service Use Among Women Who Have Separated from an Abusive Partner" Journal of Family Violence Vol. 30 Iss. 4 (2015) p. 419 - 431
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/marilyn-ford-gilboe/21/