Mothering in the Context of Domestic Violence Among South Asian Families

PurposeTo gain knowledge and understanding about the lived experiences involving children exposed to domestic violence (DV) from the perspective of abused South Asian women in the United States (U.S). The authors postulate that by learning more about these experiences we can contribute to the literature and help service providers create more inclusive and culturally responsive services for abused South Asian women and children.MethodsIn-depth telephonic interviews were conducted with 14 abused South Asian women in the U.S. to understand their experiences involving their children. Thematic analysis was conducted by the authors to understand the perceptions of South Asian mothers about their responses when children were involved.ResultsThe following themes emerged: (1) manipulation and control; (a) contentious custody battles with limited resources (b) son preference (c) deeming the mother unfit (2) the impact of abuse on children.ConclusionIt is important for clinicians to understand the ways in which power and control are utilized by South Asian perpetrators to control women and use children as pawns in the context of intersecting identities of gender, immigration status and racial-ethnic background.