Service seeking experiences of college-aged sexual and intimate partner violence victims with a mental health and/or behavioral disability

Abstract

Objective: To examine mental health service experiences following sexual violence (SV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization among college women with a disability.

Participants: College women (n = 27, ages 19 to 24) with a disability who experienced at least one SV/IPV occurrence; interviewed July/August 2016.

Methods: Qualitative study using in-depth interviews, with thematic analysis.

Results: Women tended to wait several months (or did not seek care at all) following SV/IPV, because they downplayed their experience (e.g., not wanting to label an experience as "rape"). Those seeking services primarily did so because of escalating mental health concerns. Among service seekers, women were satisfied when professionals validated their experiences/concerns; and were dissatisfied when faced with extended wait time for care and/or professionals unskilled with SV/IPV and mental health. However, women still sought care following negative experiences.

Conclusions: Improved access to integrated care for SV/IPV and mental health, along with skilled professionals, is essential.

Keywords: College students; disability; intimate partner violence; service utilization; sexual violence.