| Description |
This paper addresses the complex issue of refugee women and their susceptibility to sexual and gender-based violence. Refugees are more susceptible to this violence as a result of their increased vulnerability when they are displaced, as well as changing gender roles and environments as they are forced to resettle. In refugee communities, males typically hold dominance and power in society. Sexual and gender-based violence is perpetuated through its cultural acceptance at the individual, relational, community, and social levels. Survivors are not supported by their communities to seek care and treatment after experiencing this violence. This study seeks to explore the complexity of culture surrounding refugee women living in Salt Lake City, Utah who have survived sexual and gender-based violence by assessing their awareness and access of support resources. This study also seeks to gain an understanding of how to overcome the barriers which survivors face in order to connect them to support resources. Through a qualitative research study, interviews were conducted in order to collect data from practitioners assessing their clients' barriers, awareness, and access of resources. Results found barriers to women receiving treatment in Salt Lake City, and this paper offers recommendations in overcoming these barriers. |
