Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Nursing

Supervisor

Jackson, Kimberley T.

2nd Supervisor

Mantler, Tara

Abstract

The aim of this secondary analysis was to explore the intersection of gender, sexuality, and rurality on a person’s experience of seeking health and social services following intimate partner violence (IPV). Data from the primary study, SPEAK: Sharing Personal Experiences of Accessibility and Knowledge of Violence, were used for this secondary analysis. This study reviewed the experience of women who identified as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ), and lived in a rural community. Using a case-study design utilizing Heaton’s (2004) guidelines, the experiences of LGBTQ women who had experienced IPV seeking health and social services in rural communities were explored. Data collected from demographic questionnaires and interviews indicated that sexuality and rurality hinder a woman’s ability to engage in help seeking behaviours. These findings may be useful to inform future practice and policy of resources and services available to facilitate LGBTQ women in rural communities when seeking care.

Summary for Lay Audience

The goal of this study was to explore the relationship between gender, sexuality, and rurality on woman’s experiences of seeking health and social services. This study explored the experience of women who had encountered intimate partner violence and identified as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ), and lived in a rural community. Interviews were conducted with four women and analysis showed sexuality and rurality hinder a woman’s ability to engage in help-seeking behaviours. These findings may be useful in shaping future practice and policy of resources and services

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