Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science
Primary Major
Global Public Health
Primary Minor
Latin American and Latino Studies
Thesis Advisor
Micheala George, PhD, MPH
Abstract
Introduction:
Domestic violence affects one in every four women in the United States. Previous research shows the importance of group therapy for those who have experienced this trauma. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the “In This Together” (ITT) program that takes place in Marin County, CA, through the organization Center For Domestic Peace (C4DP).
Methods:
This quantitative analysis consisted of 10 cohorts, with a total of 65 participants. Eligibility criteria for survivors of domestic violence included being a parent and fluent in English or Spanish. Scaled questions were asked before and after the 10 week ITT therapy program. The questions were based on the Regulating Emotions in Parenting Scale (REPS), and Hope for Parenting Scale (HFPS) measurement tools. By asking participants before and after ITT, it allowed the researchers to measure the impacts of the program.
Results:
Based on preliminary results, show that on average, individuals who completed the ITT program were better communicators, strengthened their relationships with their children, and felt empowered against their abuser. Subscores within both REPS and HPS showed statistically significant positive increases (p>0.05). Further analysis is underway to understand the components of these scales and how those were impacted by ITT.
Discussion:
ITT has shown to have impacted participants by improving their parent-child relationship after the trauma of domestic violence. Being more aware of feelings and finding empowerment gives survivors of domestic violence more tools to better their lives in many ways. Implementing ITT into different group therapy settings for other populations who have suffered traumatic experiences is crucial and encouraged.