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Abstract
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Little has been written about the experiences and stresses of low-income African American youth witnesses of intimate partner violence (ipv ). Specifically, what is not apparent in the literature is the impact of witnessing ipv on the self-identity and development of low-income African American youth.
RESULTS of semi-structured interviews with ten young adult African American males and females, ages 21-29, who witnessed ipv as low-income youth indicated major themes from three variables under study (impact of witnessing ipv on self-identity and development; experience of being a low-income youth; and experience of being African American). Within the variable of the impact of witnessing ipv on self-identity and development, six major themes emerged in the data: opposing ipv /taking a non-violent stance; not wanting to be abused, controlled or disrespected in relationships; becoming independent/growing up too fast; developing trust issues; engaging in aggressive interactions, internalizing issues and rationalizing ipv ; and growth from witnessed ipv /view of self as better person. Two core themes arose from the six major themes: loss of childhood/gain of independence and adolescent problems due to ipv exposure.
DISCUSSION and significance of the findings are presented within this work.
Language: en |