The Social Impacts of Peer Interactions During Emergency Accommodation for Those Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Emergency accommodation (EA) for those impacted by domestic violence (DV) established since the 1970s have provided vital support, fostering social connections among women who have experienced DV. This systematic review aims to investigate peer-to-peer interactions during EA stays for people who have experienced DV. Studies were included if they involved adult participants who had experienced DV, had attended an EA facility and the studies included information about the social outcomes of peer-to-peer interactions during their stay. Following a comprehensive database search, 15 qualitative studies were identified. COVIDENCE was used to manage the data. Results were categorized and synthesized into findings according to Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. These synthesized findings are (1) Universality occurs at the intersection between social interactions and relationship formation, and (2) Becoming situationally aware enhanced women’s consciousness of interpersonal dynamics and social well-being. Qualitative studies which looked at interpersonal contact between people who have experienced DV revealed that there are positive social outcomes when people interact together after having experienced DV. These findings underscore the profound social benefits attainable through EA. This review suggests that there is a rationale for creating residential programs and EA that enhance peer support and the generation of social capital for people who have experienced DV.