Document Type
Dissertation
Date of Award
2025
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
S. Jean Caraway
Abstract
Domestic violence has long-term impacts on women’s emotional, psychological, and physical health, with American Indian women experiencing disproportionately high rates of violence and face unique barriers in overcoming challenges of healing. As part of a larger study, this research aimed to better understand the healing process of American Indian women domestic violence survivors in rural areas. This study examined findings from a mixed methods approach, which investigated the significance of identifying co-occurring mental health needs and providing support, education, and resources to address these needs. The research utilized a quantitative method of descriptive statistics, identifying survivors who endorsed mental health symptoms, and utilized a hermeneutic phenomenology methodology that focused on examining the personal experience of survivors. Quantitative findings revealed high rates of co-occurring mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use, as well as symptoms of emotional dysregulation and alexithymia. While some participants also experienced posttraumatic growth. Qualitative data revealed three overarching themes. Within One’s Heart highlighted a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical experiences that were described as complex mental health concerns, often tied to systemic barriers and compounded trauma. Connection and Recovery emphasized disruptions and reconnections in cultural practices, language, spirituality, and relational supports central to recovery. Resources and Supports reflected participants’ experiences with accessing and engaging in services. Throughout their stories, the participants’ voices revealed strength, healing, and resilience. Together, these findings emphasized the importance of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and relationship-centered support systems that honor survivors’ lived experiences, identities, and healing, particularly in rural areas.
Subject Categories
Clinical Psychology | Psychology
Keywords
American Indian domestic violence mental health rural trauma
Number of Pages
151
Publisher
University of South Dakota
Recommended Citation
Swallow, Arial, "AMERICAN INDIAN SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SELF-PERCEIVED MENTAL HEALTH AFTER SEEKING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICES" (2025). Dissertations and Theses. 378.
https://red.library.usd.edu/diss-thesis/378