Optimization of eHealth interventions for intimate partner violence and abuse: A qualitative study amongst Arabic-speaking migrant women

Abstract

Aims: This interview study focuses on the needs and wishes of Arabic-speaking migrant women in the Netherlands to culturally adapt and optimize the digital support platform SAFE (safewomen.nl) for intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) for their use. Design: This is a qualitative interview-based study. Methods: We conducted the study between March 2020 and 2021. The study entailed 16 semi-structured interviews with Arabic-speaking women in the Netherlands with a migration background. Results: Findings suggest that a cultural gap, a lack of knowledge of the Dutch law, and the prevalence of restrictive gender roles amongst the participants and their spouses affected their acknowledgement of the different forms of IPVA. Furthermore, mental health consequences of IPVA were also strongly stigmatized. Clear information in their native language, summarizing infographics and potential interactive features should be main components of any eHealth intervention for this target group. Conclusion: The participants in our study deemed e-help a potentially valuable support option for women experiencing IPVA in their community. The impact of IPVA on mental health is currently overlooked within this target group and should be emphasized in future interventions. Impact: Cultural sensitivity proved crucial in understanding the concepts of IPVA amongst women with migrant backgrounds. To ensure effective eHealth interventions for migrant women, they should be involved in the design and delivery of these interventions.