Developing a brief online psychoeducational intervention for Latina survivors of intimate partner violence

One-third of U.S. women report experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV), which has been linked to negative mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and substance use problems. Sociocultural factors make women of color especially vulnerable to experiencing IPV and barriers to overcoming it; one particularly vulnerable group is Latinas. IPV-exposed Latinas who seek help may face language barriers, racism and discrimination, and a shortage of bilingual/bicultural mental health professionals. Digital tools, however, may be a useful alternative to face-to-face services for this population. Digital IPV interventions are scarce; they focus primarily on the prevention and reduction of IPV in English, leaving a wide gap for IPV-exposed Latinas whose journey out of abusive relationships and to recovery is complex.

This study aimed to explore the psychoeducational content (the "what") and digital formats and features (the "how") of an online psychoeducation intervention that would suit the needs and preferences of IPV-exposed Latinas.

Virtual interviews with both IPV-exposed Latinas (n = 8) and providers who have worked with them (n = 7) were conducted. Interviews included questions about (1) lived experiences with IPV; (2) specific needs and disparities that IPV-exposed Latinas face; and (3) types of content and digital formats that should be included in a digital intervention for IPV-exposed Latinas in order to meet those needs.

Qualitative analysis of interview transcripts yielded three major themes: Identifying and Coping With IPV and its Mental Health Impact, Grounding in Latine Culture, and Ensuring a Positive Digital Experience. These themes provide preliminary evidence that represents the needs and values of IPV-exposed Latina women and can be used to inform intervention development.

This is the first digital psychosocial intervention development study specifically for IPV-exposed Latina women. Results suggest further investigation of digital therapeutics for this at-risk population.