“I FRICKEN LOVED THEM”: UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF ANIMALS WITHIN THE LIVES OF WOMEN SEEKING HELP FOR RURAL INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE
Date
2023-12-22
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
Saskatchewan’s high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) has been well documented within government statistics. Research has demonstrated women who experience intimate partner violence and have a relationship with an animal, care deeply for their animal’s well-being and often have animal safety concerns. This human-animal bond provides a safe relationship within their lives and provides a source of comfort during times of stress. However, most intimate partner violence research has been largely urban centric. As a result, limited research has focused on women in rural areas who are seeking help for intimate partner violence while also having animal safekeeping concerns.
Using constructivist grounded theory and an anti-oppressive feminist framework, this study applied a qualitative methodology using a thematic analysis to understand who experienced rural IPV understand the roles (if any) that animals, pet, or farm, play for rural women when seeking help for IPV.
A secondary analysis was performed on two focus groups with service providers throughout Saskatchewan and 10 interviews with women who have lived experience with rural intimate partner violence. Connections were made between what service providers were seeing at their level and the experiences shared by women. It was found that women view their animals as an important support within their lives and there is further need for animal inclusive supports for those seeking help with animal care concerns. This study highlights areas for future research and policy changes to help promote the inclusion of the human-animal bond within intimate partner violence services in the province.
Description
Keywords
Human-animal bond, Intimate partner violence, Rural, Rural intimate partner violence, Qualitative
Citation
Degree
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Department
Sociology
Program
Sociology