Barriers for Rural Victims of Domestic Violence

One out of every four women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime and it is the leading cause of injury to women. Even with years of policy change, consciousness-raising groups, and shelters developed as a result of the feminist movement, the daily threat of violence and constant feeling of fear are still an everyday occurrence for too many women. This is an analysis of the available literature regarding the unique barriers to victims of domestic violence who reside in rural communities in receiving adequate services. These barriers, such as difficulties with transportation, lack of emergency shelter availability, and geographic isolation are discussed. Suggestions for intervention methods are given, such as safety planning, and education for parties responding to domestic violence emergency situations