2.4 Epilogue to Judy's Story
It’s definitely a hard time in your life. I think even if it’s a regular relationship, regular people, regular scenario and you’re having a break-up, it’s hard enough, let alone dealing with the realization that you’ve been in an abusive relationship.
So what does that mean, that I’m the victim and I’m letting this happen? But I do feel fortunate because I had support and know it’s the right decision. And everyday feels better because of it, even the rough spots, but with help, it gives you that much more energy because somebody else is able to care for you or watch out for you or just give you that kind word to carry you on to your next step. It really is a battle, a battle with yourself, a battle with society, a battle with your partner and in a lot of cases your family and friends. So wherever you can get reinforcements it’s a good thing. Although there are lots of strong women out there, you still have times where you need help because you can’t do everything on your own.
>> ACTIVITY
Women face many barriers in our society to breaking free from abuse. In this final activity, think about what you have learned in this module about the cycle of violence, the health impacts of abuse, barriers to accessing health-care, the impact of health-care practice, and how society and other systems can add to the trauma women experience.
Click here to start the Barrier Exercise
To begin the exercise, go to the next location indicated at the end of each box. When you are finished reading, note where you are supposed to go next. Close the box using the 'X' in the top-right hand corner, and proceed to your next destination by clicking on its icon.
Resource Link:
Intersecting Inequalities
Resource Link:
Attachment Across Cultures
>> REFERENCES:
Jiwani, Y. (2001). Intersecting Inequalities: Immigrant Women of Colour, Violence and Health-care. Status of Women Canada: Vancouver.
http://www.harbour.sfu.ca/freda/pdf/inequal.pdf
Mawani, F.N. Attachment across cultures. Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program: Ottawa.
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/dca-dea/publications/pdf/attachment_toolkit_e.pdf
Conclusion:
Think about the fact that 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual at some point in their adult lives (and more have experienced emotional or verbal abuse), that 1 in 10 women are experiencing it right now, and that as many as 15% of pregnant women are currently experiencing abuse. Does this change how you see your patients? Remember that abuse cuts across all lines of socio-economic status, race, culture, and geographical location.
You have now completed Module 2. Click on 'Module 3' at the top of the page to being the next module.