Exploring the Potential Relationship between Historical Trauma and Intimate Partner Violence among Indigenous Women

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the insights of Indigenous human service practitioners, who work with Indigenous women experiencing intimate partner violence, about connections between historical trauma and intimate partner violence. The 15 participants represent female Indigenous practitioners from the Midwest and are citizens from various tribal nations throughout the United States and Canada. Interview transcripts were analyzed according to a naturalistic inquiry approach and guided by empowerment principles. Findings include the major themes as participant characteristics, views on factors contributing to intimate partner violence, historical trauma as an overarching concept, paths to healing, contributing factors to recovery and transformation, and human service approaches to address domestic violence. Based on participants’ insights, a flowchart was developed to aid in understanding the relationship between historical trauma and intimate partner violence, and various healing responses. Practitioners’ insights and the flowchart lead to implications for culturally appropriate provision of human service and social work education as well as directions for future research.