Impacts of Peer Support on Coping and Cortisol Levels for Women Affected by Domestic Violence and Coercive Control

Gendered domestic violence and coercive control are prevalent public heath concerns in Canada with dire consequences for survivors. Peer support groups may address and reduce negative impacts of domestic violence and coercive control on women's stress, coping, safety, and alliances with social support network members, the focus of this study.

A one-group, pre-test/post-test quasi-experimental study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of Growth Circle, a 14-week peer support program offered at an agency serving women affected by domestic violence in a major western Canadian city. Through convenience sampling, women 18 years and older who experienced domestic violence were recruited and provided data on stress, coping, safety-related empowerment, and social support/alliances. Thirty-five participants provided all pre-test and post-test data, with a subsample of 14 providing repeated hair samples. Hair was employed to determine stress hormone (cortisol) levels.

A significant reduction in self-reported levels of perceived stress and stress hormone levels following completion of the Growth Circle program was revealed. Participants also reported a significant increase in safety-related empowerment, and supportive alliances with group members.

The Growth Circle peer support program was demonstrated to be effective. Further implementation and research into the Growth Circle program across Canada is recommended.