Nursing Publications
Title
Gender differences in workplace disclosure and supports for domestic violence: Results of a pan-Canadian survey
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2016
Journal
Violence and Victims
Volume
31
Issue
6
First Page
1135
Last Page
1154
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1891/0886-6708.VV-D-15-00078
Abstract
Although domestic violence is increasingly identified as a workplace issue, little is known about workplace supports and the role of gender in workplace disclosure experiences. Using a subset of 2,831 people who experienced domestic violence, we examined (a) who discloses at work and to whom, and reasons for not disclosing; (b) helpfulness of disclosure recipients, including types of supports received; and (c) overall outcomes of disclosing, including negative consequences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. More than 40% of participants disclosed domestic violence at work, usually to coworkers or supervisors. They received various supports which were generally seen as helpful. Although not common, negative consequences of disclosure were reported. Men were less likely to disclose, but few other gender differences emerged. Implications for improving workplace supports are discussed.