Coping with Domestic Violence by Japanese Canadian Women

Abstract

Domestic violence is a worldwide phenomenon and a serious issue regardless of cultural backgrounds, types of societies, and levels of living conditions. It creates a very stressful situation for the victims and often results in psychological or physical injuries. In the case of spousal abuse, the issue is even more complicated because the effects often extend multi-generationally. Family violence is one of the most stressful issues for immigrant families because they have to deal with family problems in a completely foreign environment without their familiar social supports. In addition, language and cultural barriers may also prevent them from seeking appropriate help. In some cases, the existing social services may be inappropriate for immigrant families. The purpose of this present research is, first, to investigate the experience of violence and abuse against Japanese immigrant women in Canada; and secondly, to examine the women's coping strategies. It is my hope that findings from the research may be helpful for preventing domestic violence in immigrant families and developing cross-culturally sensitive counseling models. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)