Self-empowerment of immigrant Latina survivors of domestic violence: A promotora model of community leadership

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Abstract

This article presents the results of a self-empowerment leadership intervention program for Latina immigrant survivors of domestic violence in Atlanta, Georgia. It builds on the literature base of the Promotora model, a public health model using peer information sharing as a tool for health promotion. This study used an embedded mixed-methods design with quantitative and qualitative components to evaluate the impact of a peer community leadership program called Lideres. Results of single-subject analyses show that the participants experienced change in three components of self-empowerment: intrapersonal, interactional, and behavioral. The qualitative findings revealed that they overcame fear and gained knowledge as well as a sense that they could promote change in their community. These findings add support to a growing literature base that demonstrates how peer model programs can not only positively influence the well-being of the communities they serve but also have transformative effects on peer leaders themselves. Study findings can also inform future efforts to empower survivors through promotora approaches specifically in the context of domestic violence prevention.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

What works to prevent and respond to intimate partner violence among refugees?

A variety of interventions may be effective in preventing or responding to intimate partner violence (IPV) among refugees. Strong evidence supports the effectiveness of IPV prevention and response interventions that: consider the unique contexts of refugees and immigrants, engage with community members, and are tailored according to participants’ lived experiences, needs, and abilities. There is…

About this study

AGE: Adults

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Paid

GENDER: Female

HOST COUNTRY: United States

POPULATION: Immigrants

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

TYPE OF STUDY: Suggestive evidence

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2016

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