Which factor is least important in the decision regarding whether a victim of family violence can safely remain in the home?
A. The availability of appropriate community shelters.
B. The non-abusing caretaker’s ability to intervene on the client’s behalf.
C. The client’s possible response to relocation.
D. The family’s socioeconomic status.
Correct Answer: D. The family’s socioeconomic status
Socioeconomic status is not a reliable predictor of abuse in the home so that it would be the least important consideration in deciding issues of safety for the victim of family violence. Family and domestic violence (including child abuse, intimate partner abuse, and elder abuse) is a common problem in the United States. Family and domestic health violence are estimated to affect 10 million people in the United States every year. It is a national public health problem, and virtually all healthcare professionals will at some point evaluate or treat a patient who is a victim of some form of domestic or family violence.
Option A: Unfortunately, each form of family violence begets interrelated forms of violence, and the “cycle of abuse” is often continued from exposed children into their adult relationships, and finally to the care of the elderly. Domestic and family violence includes a range of abuse including economic, physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological toward children, adults, and elders. If the patient elects to leave their current situation, information for referral to a local domestic violence shelter to assist the victim should be given.
Option B: The ability of the non-abusing caretaker to intervene on the client’s behalf are important factor when making safety decisions. Patients that have suffered domestic violence may or may not want a referral. Many are fearful of their lives and financial well-being and hence may be weighing the tradeoff in leaving the abuser leading to loss of support and perhaps the responsibility of caring for children alone. The healthcare provider needs to assure the patient that the decision is voluntary and that the provider will help regardless of the decision. The goal is to make resources accessible, safe, and to enhance support.
Option C: The client’s response to possible relocation (if the client is a competent adult) would be the most important factor to consider; feelings of empowerment and being treated as a competent person can help a client feel less like a victim. If the patient does not want to go to a shelter, provide telephone numbers for domestic violence or crisis hotlines and support services for potential later use. Provide the patient with instructions but be mindful that written materials may pose a danger once the patient returns home.