Amplifying the Voices of Domestic Violence Survivors: Focus Groups to Inform Services, Supports, and

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Amplifying the Voices of Domestic Violence Survivors: Focus Groups to Inform Services, Supports, and Programs in Illinois

Violence Prevention Research Lab

School of Social Work

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Rachel Garthe, PhD & Apoorva Nag, MS

Four individuals smiling and posing with rainbow flags in hand.

Front cover image descriptions: Three photos are displayed. The first has two individuals seated together talking on a white couch. The second has a group of nine women and children standing together against a dark backdrop. The third has two individuals seated on a couch together. One of the individuals is looking away, while the other is listening.

This report was supported through an interagency agreement between the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) and the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign School of Social Work (Principal Investigator: Rachel Garthe, PhD). Funding provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services. Points of view and opinions expressed in these materials do not represent those of the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Suggested Citation

Garthe, R. C. & Nag, A. (2024). Amplifying the Voices of Domestic Violence Survivors: Focus Groups to Inform Services, Supports, and Programs in Illinois. Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Acknowledgments

We are extremely grateful for the survivors who participated in the focus groups and surveys. Participating in these focus groups took an immense amount of courage and bravery. We are committed to elevating what survivors shared with us, continuing to advocate for survivor-centered domestic violence services in Illinois. We also aim to use the information shared with us to continue strengthening programs, services, and supports across systems of care.

A special thank you to Chloé McMurray, Samantha Dickens, and Ema Phelps at ICADV for initiating this project, assisting with recruitment, and for reviewing drafts of this report. We thank the many domestic violence agencies and community-based organizations across Illinois that assisted with advertising this study with their networks.

Finally, a thank you to the staff and students within the Violence Prevention Research Lab who assisted with this project at various stages, including Alina Loewenstein, Emily Dailey, Haley Miller, Nick Cannon, Nia Welch, and Ayla Makris.

Notes

Stock photos used in this report are free from Pexels.com

Two women smile and embrace outdoors, with greenery and buildings in the background.

Five women in colorful, traditional attire are sitting and standing together, smiling and laughing.

Executive Summary

Domestic violence (DV) is a significant public health crisis. Globally, an estimated 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner in their lifetime (World Health Organization, 2018). DV survivors may seek help from formal supports, including from DV service agencies, law enforcement, court systems, medical or healthcare providers, or community-based organizations. DV survivors also may seek help from informal supports, such as from friends or family members. Survivors may seek both formal and informal supports, others may report or disclose abuse after time has passed, and others may not choose to tell anybody about their experiences. Thus, the help-seeking journey is unique and personal to every survivor.

Accessing formal supports does not always result in the care or support that is needed, and researchers and practitioners have highlighted barriers in accessing formal services, as well as recommendations for systems of care. Some of these recommendations and barriers were also illustrated in a needs assessment report for the state of Illinois (Garthe et al., 2022), examining victim services more broadly. Through surveys and interviews, victims discussed the critical need for system improvements to victim services.

The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV), the federally designated statewide coalition, is a membership organization that provides policy advocacy, grant monitoring and pass through funding, and training and technical assistance to DV agencies across Illinois. ICADV wanted to learn about needs and barriers faced by survivors who access DV services. In particular, they wanted to learn more about these experiences from marginalized populations, including racial and ethnic minoritized individuals, survivors with disabilities, survivors from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and other sexual and gender minoritized identities (LGBTQ+) community, and survivors who are immigrants.

A group of individuals are engaged in a conversation while seated in chairs. One person is speaking in a microphone while seated.

Thus, ICADV aimed to learn about survivors' perspectives about DV services in terms of accessibility, availability, quality, and engagement. They contracted with a universitybased team to conduct this research, holding focus groups across the state of Illinois to understand DV survivors' perspectives, especially survivors from underserved populations.

Method

The research team worked with DV agencies and community-based organizations to share information about the study (e.g., posting flyers, sharing on social media pages). Interested individuals completed a screening survey that assessed for eligibility: 1) must be 18 years of age or older, 2) must currently reside in Illinois, and 3) must have experienced DV. From these screening surveys, the team then purposively sampled within geographic regions of Illinois (Southern, Central, Northern, North-Collar, and Cook; Appendix A includes an image of Illinois depicting these geographic regions in Illinois), predominately selecting participants who identified: a) as a racial or ethnic minority, b) LGBTQ+, c) with a disability, or d) as an immigrant.

A total of 219 individuals completed the screening survey, and 101 were invited to participate in a focus group. Forty six participants completed the online consent form and participated in a focus group. There were a total of 13 focus groups; 12 were online via Zoom. Focus groups took approximately 75 minutes to complete. All focus groups were audio recorded. After the focus groups, participants were sent a brief survey to complete. After both were completed, participants were sent a list of resources and were compensated for their time with a cash or gift card incentive.

Focus Group Participants

The 46 survivors who participated in a focus group represented 12 counties across Illinois. Prevalence of DV was high across types (e.g., 91% reported physical violence from an intimate partner). Most sought formal support at a DV agency (67%) and from informal supports (76%). The participants ranged in age from 22 to 59 (M = 33.87, SD = 9.53). The majority of survivors identified as cisgender female (61%) and 63% identified as heterosexual. Approximately 46% of the participants had a LGBTQ+ identity. In terms of race and ethnicity, 72% reported a racial and/or ethnic minoritized identity (i.e., nonWhite). Twenty percent reported a disability. The majority (74%) of focus group participants were born in the United States, while 12 were born in another country.

Focus Group Results

Across focus groups, we heard about DV survivors’ help-seeking processes, including how they found out about services, aspects they found particularly helpful (or not), barriers they encountered, strategies they used to stay safe, and how aspects of their identity or identities impacted the services they sought or received. Survivors concluded with recommendations for formal support systems and general practices. Results from the focus groups are summarized here, organized by the overarching topics.

Who did survivors choose to seek help from in terms of formal response systems?

Survivors sought help from a variety of formal response systems, though the most common was DV agencies and community-based organizations. Survivors also commonly sought help from law enforcement, obtained Orders of Protection, or help from other legal services. The help-seeking process was a journey: survivors often described reaching out to a support system, who connected them with other services or supports. Each journey described was unique, depending on their immediate needs, the availability of services, their knowledge of supports, or situational factors.

What did survivors need the most when they were (are) experiencing violence?

When survivors were experiencing violence, they needed formal supports the most, especially from mental health providers and support groups. Survivors needed to feel supported and safe, validated, and believed. DV advocates were a key support mentioned throughout the help-seeking process.

How did survivors stay safe when they were (are) experiencing violence?

In order to stay safe when experiencing violence, survivors discussed that strategies largely depended on their situation (i.e., if they stayed in the relationship or if they left). Important to the process of finding safety was obtaining information and safety planning. Obtaining Orders of Protection also was a specific method described for staying safe.

How did survivors find out about the services they received?

Survivors found out about the services they received from formal supports making connections to other services (e.g., called the police who connected them with a DV agency). Family and friends also helped survivors find supports. Additionally, survivors obtained information from posters, pamphlets, and online resources.

What barriers did survivors encounter when trying to access services?

In every focus group, survivors discussed barriers when trying to access services. These barriers included: 1) accessibility issues and issues related to policy criteria and eligibility, 2) stigma, shame, and fear of retaliation, 3) barriers within formal systems,

4) mental health concerns, emotions, and perceptions, 5) their partner was a barrier, 6) financial barriers, 7) language, cultural, identity, and social barriers, 8) not being believed or being questioned, or 9) other barriers. Many survivors noted multiple barriers, further adding to the complexity of the help-seeking process.

What services were particularly helpful for survivors?

Services that were particularly helpful to survivors came from DV agencies, as well as counseling and support groups.

Did survivors feel that they received the help they needed?

While some survivors confirmed that they received the help they needed from DV agencies, mental health professionals, police and courts, and informal supports, there was a handful of survivors who felt mixed support or felt that they did not receive the help they needed. Barriers were highlighted, as well as feelings of being forced into adversarial scenarios, coercive situations, police not enforcing Orders of Protection, or not feeling cared for.

How did survivors perceive online supports?

Survivors mentioned the helpful role of online supports, and participants gave recommendations specifically pertaining to online resources. Several mentioned the need for more online support groups and educational resources.

Three people sitting on a couch, examining a document together.

How did aspects of survivors’ identity or identities affect the services received?

Survivors’ identity or identities played a significant role in the help-seeking process and in the help they received. Most of the discussions centered around barriers, highlighting the importance of more inclusive, culturally responsive services across systems of care. Aspects of identity that were discussed as barriers included: 1) gender, 2) race and culture, 3) LGBTQ+ identity, 4) disability status, 5) religion, 6) intersectional identities, or 7) other (e.g., history of substance use disorder, generational differences, socioeconomic status, or needing bilingual services). A few survivors discussed how their identity served as a facilitator to receiving help, especially when they had identities that matched or were similar to their service provider.

What recommendations did survivors suggest for formal support systems?

Finally, survivors provided recommendations to improve formal supports. Recommendations were provided especially within DV agencies and mental health providers, within courts and the legal system, for law enforcement and within medical settings. System-specific recommendations largely included more training and education related to DV, as well as better coordination and collaboration across systems. Suggestions included having co-response models and embedding domestic professionals in diverse spaces. Survivors also detailed the importance of increasing awareness of DV, while also providing more prevention programs.

Overall practice recommendations were also provided, including the provision of comprehensive, long-term services, while continuing to work to reduce stigma and create safer spaces for disclosure. Survivors also detailed the importance of increasing awareness of DV, while also providing more prevention programs. These recommendations are listed here:

 Increase education and training about DV across formal and informal support systems.

 Enhance overall service practices, such as offering quality practices, diverse types of practices and supports, and comprehensive practices.

 Strengthen organizational climates to reduce stigma, have confidentiality, enhance trust, and create safer spaces for disclosure.

 Create more collaborative systems, enhance communication, and have more co-response and collaborative service models.

 Strengthen inclusivity within systems, e.g., culturally responsive services.

 Increase flyers, advertisements, websites, forums, and social media posts to increase awareness.

 Review and modify laws and policies related to DV.

 Men can be victims too, so have more services and access for men.

x

 Increase the number of shelters and access to temporary housing.

 Provide more navigation and guidance support when accessing within and across different systems.

 Services should have quick response times, but also have more long-term follow-up and extend the length of time that organizations can provide services.

 Enhance accessibility, including more transportation.

 Have services provide more supports and care if children are involved.

 Provide financial supports to survivors and increase funding to organizations.

 Have shelters and supports for abusers.

 Allow shelters to take pets.

 Provide trauma-informed services across systems.

Conclusions & Take-aways

These focus groups elevated the stories of 46 DV survivors, representing diverse sociodemographic identities, across the state of Illinois. We heard about their unique journeys in seeking help, barriers they experienced, and services they found helpful. We also heard about their recommendations for DV services and overall practices across formal systems of care. These findings highlight important steps forward for the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, as well as for other systems of care.

This report provides survivor-informed recommendations, which adds to a growing body of research that calls for more comprehensive services, trauma-informed care, the importance of empowering survivors to direct their helpseeking journey in finding safety, systemsspecific improvements, and better collaboration and coordination across systems. This report further details recommendations related to awareness and education, the utility of online resources and spaces, and the power of prevention. Together, this report highlights the urgent need to continue strengthening services, as well as the coordination of services, to better support survivors of DV across Illinois.

Portrait of a person wearing a magenta hijab with a black background, looking upwards and slightly smiling.

“You know, this (domestic violence) is, an epidemic, or at least it's of like, epidemic proportions. And we're just not talking on it.”

Background

Current Study & Objectives

Background

Domestic Violence is a Public Health Crisis

Figure 1. 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence

Globally, an estimated 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner in their lifetime, and 13% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 have experienced partner violence in the past year (World Health Organization, 2018). Risks for perpetrating intimate partner violence, also referred to as domestic violence (DV), include financial stressors and economic instability, housing insecurity, and unemployment, as well as norms supporting gender-based violence (Garthe et al., 2023). Factors that place individuals at a greater risk for perpetrating DV also exist at the individual level and within relationships. For example, these risk factors include childhood exposure to DV, experiencing childhood abuse and neglect, a history of violent behaviors or substance use disorder, having friends who perpetrate or experience DV, poor family communication and relationship qualities, and low levels of neighborhood connection (Niolon et al., 2017). Experiencing DV can result in numerous adverse behavioral, mental, physical, financial, social, and emotional outcomes (e.g., Chan & Cho, 2010; Stubbs & Szoeke, 2021; White et al., 2024).

Help-Seeking among Survivors of Domestic Violence

Individuals who experience DV (i.e., survivors), may seek support from DV service agencies, law enforcement, court systems, medical or healthcare providers, or community-based organizations. Across these formal supports, survivors may utilize counseling services, seek orders of protection, engage in safety planning, seek temporary food and housing, participate in cash transfer programs, apply for housing assistance and family support services, or receive legal or medical advocacy. Survivors may also seek support, information, and referrals through helplines or hotlines. Receiving formal support can increase overall mental health and wellbeing among survivors (Sullivan, 2018), particularly when they are provided holistic, individualized, and trauma-informed support (Paphitis et al., 2022). Survivors may also seek informal supports from family or friends. When informal supports believe the survivor and validate their experiences, informal support can increase psychological health benefits (Sylaska & Edwards, 2014).

In general, victims of violent crimes do not always seek formal help; a national survey found that about only 1 in 4 victims seek formal help (Youstin & Siddique, 2018). Although this number has increased in the past decade, there remains a large number of victims

who do not receive formal supports following a victimization experience (Thompson & Tapp, 2022). When looking specifically at DV, survivors may seek both formal and informal supports, others may report or disclose abuse after time has passed, and others may not choose to tell anybody about their experiences (McCart et al., 2010; Nally et al., 2021). Depending on the type of abuse, survivors also may be more likely to seek only informal supports (e.g., Ullman, 1996). In a recent study of survivors, 50% sought help from both formal and informal networks, 15% primarily sought support from informal supports, and 35% engaged formal systems but largely avoided legal systems (Cheng et al., 2022). Given that a large number of survivors seek help from informal supports, more efforts are occurring to increase informal supporters’ responses to DV disclosure (e.g., Schucan Bird et al., 2024).

The help-seeking journey is distinct and personal to each survivor. Providers have emphasized the importance of empowering survivors in the help-seeking process and centering their needs (i.e., victim-centered approaches). When survivors may feel that their sense of safety and control is undermined or gone in situations of abuse, empowering survivors to direct their help-seeking journey is paramount (Sullivan & Goodman, 2019). Empowerment can lead to more effective safety planning and advocacy, all beginning with the survivors’ wants, needs, and priorities (Cattaneo et al., 2020). Additionally, practitioners working with DV survivors highlight the importance of trauma-informed care (Paphitis et al., 2022), which is the knowledge of trauma and responding to the signs and symptoms of trauma through organizational practices and policies that prevent further trauma or re-traumatization (SAMHSA, 2014).

Barriers Exist When Seeking Help

Barriers continue to exist for accessing DV services, including lack of awareness, access challenges, consequences of disclosure, lack of material resources, personal barriers, and system failures (Robinson et al., 2020). Additionally, there may be cultural stigma and anticipated stigma related to reaching out for support (e.g., IPV Stigmatization Model; Overstreet & Quinn, 2013). Another barrier is that survivors may not access formal services because they do not know about the services available to them, they do not know how to access them, and/or they do not feel safe or comfortable accessing them (Houston-Kolnik et al., 2017). Other barriers include emotional barriers (e.g., fear of retaliation, shame and embarrassment) and instrumental barriers (e.g., housing or financial concerns, deportation concerns, language and cultural barriers, and law of awareness and knowledge; McCart et al., 2010).

Survivors also seek help differently depending on their race or culture; for example, one study found that White women may be more likely to seek mental health and social services, while Latina/Hispanic and African American women may be more likely to seek supports from hospitals or law enforcement (Satyen et al., 2019). Minoritized groups of people may experience more barriers to help-seeking, including second language learners, elderly individuals, people who experience homelessness, people with disabilities, and individuals with a sexual and/or gender minority identity (Vasquez & Houstin-Kolnik, 2017). Additionally, institutional racism, immigration laws, and a lack of culturally competent services may prevent minoritized groups from accessing formal services (Hully et al., 2023).

Summary

DV remains a pervasive public health crisis. Survivors may seek formal and/or informal supports, though the help-seeking journey is unique. Accessing formal supports does not always result in the care or support that is needed. Researchers and practitioners have highlighted recommendations for systems of care, and barriers to formal help-seeking have been identified. Across this review of the literature, it is clear that more work is needed to implement these recommendations, reduce barriers, and evaluate the impact of these efforts.

Help-Seeking in Illinois

A recent report was published that highlighted the help-seeking process among victims (of any type of crime) in Illinois (Garthe et al., 2022). This report highlighted the different combinations of supports and services that victims seek, access, and use for different experiences with victimization. The diverse help-seeking process illustrated in this report is important for the state to review, especially as it reviews their services and provision of care for victims, including those who are hesitant to seek formal support. Across surveys and interviews, victims discussed the critical need for system improvements to victim services.

Recommendations emerged for adopting trauma-informed and victim-centered approaches not only for victim services, but across all systems of care. Changes are needed to make services more accessible, accommodating, welcoming, culturally competent, gender-responsive, inclusive, and equitable for all victims, no matter where they access help. Also, services need to be enhanced to better serve minoritized groups. Survey and interview participants highlighted experiences with discrimination and inequities, emphasizing that victim services need improvements.

Other recommendations emerged, including a need for more primary prevention programs, which would reduce the need for interventions. Primary prevention programs are universal, providing education about victimization, knowledge about available

resources and supports, and strategies for reducing risks and strengthening protective factors. Finally, given the increase of providers utilizing virtual services during and following the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a need to enhance and evaluate virtual services so that victims can still access high-quality support and assistance.

Current Study: Help-Seeking among DV Survivors in Illinois

In Illinois, there are 57 agencies and organizations that provide DV services. The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) is a membership organization that provides policy advocacy, grant monitoring and pass through funding, and training and technical assistance to DV agencies across Illinois. In 2022, ICADV advocated for an increase in general revenue funds for DV service providers. After receiving the increased funds, the ICADV conducted a needs assessment among membership organizations serving DV survivors.

While this needs assessment uncovered important information from a service provider perspective, they noted that they would also like to learn about the needs and barriers faced by survivors and those who access DV services. In particular, they wanted to learn more about these experiences from underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minoritized individuals, survivors with disabilities, survivors from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and other sexual and gender minoritized identities (LGBTQ+) community, and survivors who are immigrants. Thus, ICADV aimed to learn about survivors' perspectives about DV services in terms of accessibility, availability, quality, and engagement. They contracted with a university-based team to conduct this research, holding focus groups across the state of Illinois to understand DV survivors' perspectives, especially survivors from underserved populations.

Objectives

The main study objectives include conducting focus groups with survivors who have accessed DV services to hear their perspectives about these services. Survivors were asked about:

1) Their help-seeking processes with formal systems and informal supports;

2) What services or supports they needed the most;

3) The perceptions of the quality of formal services and if they received the help they needed;

4) How aspects of identity affected the services received, including issues related to bias, discrimination, access, or accommodation;

5) Recommendations for DV agencies and other settings (e.g., law enforcement, medical providers) in supporting DV survivors.

Methods

Study Design

Recruitment

The research team worked with Domestic Violence (DV) agencies and community-based organizations to share information about the research study. Partners were asked to post flyers at their organizations or on their organization social media pages (see Appendix A). We recruited from all member organizations from ICADV (see Figure 2 below and Appendix B), as well as from LGBTQ+ organizations, refugee centers, and cultural centers. ICADV staff assisted with sending out the recruitment flyer to organizations.

Figure 2. Member organizations from ICADV, shown by geographic regions in Illinois.

Screening and Sampling Methods

In the flyers, we let individuals know that we were seeking to talk to adults (ages 18+) who lived in Illinois and who had experienced DV. If adults were interested, they were asked to complete a brief “I am interested” screening survey to assess their eligibility. This also obtained the best contact information from interested participants. If they met the inclusion criteria (listed below), they were provided with a follow-up email that included the online informed consent document, and options for focus groups with dates, times, and locations. The research team screened those who completed the survey and purposefully sampled for focus group participation:

Eligibility for focus group (inclusion criteria): Individuals had to meet the following criteria to be eligible for participation:

1. Must be 18 years of age or older.

2. Must currently reside within the state of Illinois.

3. Must have experienced domestic violence (i.e., defined by the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence [ICADV]: Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive control that one person exercises over another. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, from any background. It doesn’t discriminate based on age, race, sexual orientation, income, education, ability, or gender anyone can suffer from abuse, at any time. While physical abuse might be the first thing that comes to mind when one hears the term “domestic violence,” an abusive partner may try to exert control in a number of other ways. This can include verbal abuse, social isolation, stalking, and exerting control over finances. Remember that domestic violence is about power; its purpose is for the abuser to control the victim in whatever form(s) it takes, through whatever means it takes.)

Two people indoors, one holding a clipboard and pen, the other pointing at the clipboard.

Purposive Sampling: Within each geographic region (Southern, Central, Northern, Northern-Collar, and Cook), and we purposively selected 2-3 participants who identified: a) as a racial or ethnic minority, b) LGBTQ+, c) with a disability, or d) as an immigrant. We assessed eligibility and purposive sampling questions through the screening survey (see Appendix C).

Consent Forms

If eligible and selected to participate, individuals were sent invitations and online informed consent forms. These online consent forms included a study description, their rights as research participants, how data would be used and stored, payment information, and other important study information. Everyone had to complete the online consent before participating in a focus group.

Screening and Participation Rates

Of the 219 individuals who completed the screening survey, 101 were invited to participate in a focus group if they represented different regions of the state, and then purposively sampled for a minoritized identity or identities.

Of the 101 invitations, 46 individuals completed the online consent form and participated in a focus group (46% participation rate). 44 individuals completed the follow-up survey after the focus group. See Figure 3 for a depiction of these rates.

3. Rates across screening survey, invitations and consent forms completed, and participation.

Figure
Two women wearing white bonnets, with one in focus resting her chin on her hand.

Focus Groups & Surveys

46 individuals participated in one of the 13 focus groups. Based on scheduling needs and logistics (e.g., travel, childcare, work schedules), focus groups either took place inperson (n = 1) or online via Zoom (n = 12). Focus groups took approximately 75 minutes to complete. Most focus groups had 3-4 individuals who participated; the largest focus group had 7 participants. One trained facilitator led the focus group, and 1-2 notetakers were also present. All focus groups were audio recorded for transcription purposes. The full focus group protocol can be found in Appendix D.

After the focus groups, participants were sent a brief survey to complete, which took about 15 minutes. This survey included questions about social support, adversity, and health and wellness (see Appendix E). After the focus group and surveys were completed, participants were sent a list of resources (Appendix F) and their payment of $40 (cash for in-person participants; Amazon e-code for online participants).

Note about Facilitator & Note Takers: All focus group facilitators and notetakers on the research team were mandated reporters and were trained on focus group facilitation. Also, all completed the 20-hour Domestic Violence online training through ICADV.

Data Analysis

All focus group sessions were audio recorded and files were transcribed. After transcription, they were verified and de-identified; after confirmation, audio files were deleted. Screening survey data and post-focus group survey data were stored deidentified and securely for data analysis. Data analysis of de-identified quantitative and qualitative data took place and qualitative and quantitative codebooks were created.

Reflexive thematic analysis (Braun & Clark, 2006; 2020) was used to identify themes (i.e., group of categories that convey similar meanings) with the qualitative data. Two trained coders reviewed the data for themes, defined and named the themes, and discussed any disagreements on coding. All of this information was carefully tracked in the codebook. All quantitative data analysis, including descriptive statistics analyses, took place using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. All variable creation and analyses were tracked in the codebook.

Person in a beige hoodie and dark pants sitting on a peach bench, reading a magazine.

“We're angry because we're tired. We are exhausted. We already have to do so much: the standards of just appearance. And then you lie to people for years because of the shame and the guilt. You want to make sure that everything on the outside looks cool. It's cookie cutter. We're okay. We're fine. Because we don't know better.”

Results—Part 1: Screening Survey Results & Focus Group Participants

Screening Survey Results

219 individuals completed the screening survey, representing 40 Illinois counties.

 Sex according to birth certificate: 88% Female, 11% Male, and 1% Nonbinary X

 Gender identity: 71% Female, 10% Male, 2% Transgender Female, 1% Transgender Male, 7% Gender Non-conforming or Non-binary, 1% Gender Fluid, 1% Another Gender Identity.

 Sexual orientation: 69% Heterosexual, 5% Lesbian, 5% Gay, 14% Bisexual, 4% Queer, 1% Questioning, 4% Pansexual, 2% Demisexual, 2% Prefer to Self-describe

 LGBTQ+ identity: 31% identified as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or another sexual or gender minority identity (LGBTQ+).

 Race and ethnicity: 52% identified as White or Caucasian, 28% Black or African American, 8% Hispanic or Latino/a/x, 5% Asian or Asian American, 3% American Indian or Native American, 3% Multiracial, and 1% Another Racial or Ethnic Identity.

 Disability: 69% reported no disability, while 31% reported a disability (16% cognitive, 5% independent living , 4% ambulatory, 2% hard of hearing or Deaf, 1% low vision or blind, 1% self-care, and 7% had another disability not listed).

 Country of Origin: 84% were born in the United States, 10% were born outside of the United States, and 6% did not report.

 Criminal Legal Involvement: 70% never had criminal legal involvement, while 30% had at least one experience.

 Child Welfare Involvement: As a child, 57% had no involvement with the child welfare system, and 43% had at least one experience.

DV Experiences

Everyone in this sample had experienced DV at least once in their lifetime, with high prevalence by type and across timepoints.

Help-Seeking Experiences

Among the 219 individuals screened, they sought help with a variety of formal and informal supports. Individuals were prompted with “Following this experience(s) [of domestic violence], did you…”

Most of the individuals had sought formal assistance from a DV agency (62%) and sought counseling services or therapy (68%). The majority also sought informal supports (72%).

and Informal Support

Focus Group Participants

A total of 46 survivors participated in a focus group, representing 12 counties across Illinois (see Figure 3). Participants represented four regions in Illinois: Chicago, Cook, and Collar areas (n = 26), Northern Illinois (n = 4), Central Illinois (n = 13), and Southern Illinois (n = 3).

Figure 4. Counties in which focus group participants resided are shaded in purple.

Percentages of DV experiences and help-seeking are shown for these 46 participants in the tables below. Again, prevalence of DV was high across types. Most sought formal support at a DV agency (67%) and informal support (76%).

The 46 focus group participants ranged in age from 22 to 59 (M = 33.87, SD = 9.53). The majority of survivors identified as cisgender female (61%) and 63% identified as heterosexual. About 46% had a LGBTQ+ identity, and 72% reported a racial and/or ethnic minoritized identity (i.e., non-White).

Demographic Factor

Twenty percent reported a disability. The majority (74%) of focus group participants were born in the United States, while 12 were born in another country.

Most had no involvement with the criminal legal system (67%). Half of the participants had been involved in the child welfare system as a child.

Note. 9 individuals selected more than one experience with the criminal legal system, and 6 selected more than one experience with the child welfare system, so these counts do not total 100%.

A person in a dark green overcoat sits crouched on a paved sidewalk beside a red brick wall, clasping their hands near their face and looking contemplative.

“My story could help save another person now from the situation: my thoughts, my perspective, my experiences, could actually help as a guideline to someone who might be hearing me, or might need to also go through this process, and maybe heal from it.”

Results—Part 2: Focus Group Results

Who did survivors choose to seek help from in terms of formal response systems?

First, we asked survivors about formal response systems they sought help from. Most common responses included seeking support from DV agencies, community-based organizations, and police/law enforcement.

Notes for reading this section: Results in the table below (and the rest of this section) are organized by overarching themes, with the number of mentions across participant answers and themes in paratheses. For example, in the table below, 34 participants mentioned that they sought formal help from a DV agency or community-based organization. Then, examples are provided to define and/or illustrate each theme. Following the tables, further explanations are provided, with illustrative quotes.

Formal Response System Examples

DV Agencies & Communitybased Organizations (34)

Police & Law Enforcement (23)

Legal/Court Services (11)

Counseling, advocacy, and support groups at DV agencies and shelters, community-based organizations,

Call the police or 911, law enforcement, police with social worker at the station

Sought orders of protection and restraining orders, and sought support from attorneys, legal aids and advocates, and courthouse staff

Medical/Healthcare Providers (7)

Pamphlets and Posters (6)

Domestic Violence Hotlines and Websites (4)

Sought support from physicians/doctors, midwives, and other healthcare providers

Sought support from posters and cards in bathrooms, flyers, and pamphlets with contact information for

Sought support from 1-800 numbers, hotlines, and websites

Religious Organization (1) Sought support from a religious organization

Family and Friends (7) Although not a formal support system, survivors sought support from friends and family

Help-seeking as a Journey

When survivors described who they sought formal support from, the process often described a few different forms of support. For example, several survivors talked about how they would reach out to a legal system, which would lead them to DV agencies and other social services. Others called hotlines or reached out to DV agencies who connected them to additional services (e.g., Orders of Protection, mental health supports).

“I called domestic violence shelter hotlines and stuff like that. And usually they are pretty helpful at connecting me to resources. And also walking into the courthouse to file a order of protection. I was matched with a really helpful court [advocate] that helped me file the paperwork. And that was also a resource that I was really glad that I ended up having which isn't something I had thought to even look for.” (Participant 135)

“I chose to seek help from the services that were provided to me through the process of obtaining an order of protection...those were just the options that I had. I did seek a counselor, I think it was through the [DV Agency] that I see.” (Participant 61)

“Each kind of different person led me to a different branch. Once the counselor had told me she thought that the relationship was escalating, and was afraid for us. That led me to seek out shelters, but that was a rabbit hole in itself, because of the lack of I think at each stage, it was a little different. And not always clear. Pretty long journey.” (Participant 10)

“I had a big blow up situation where 911 was called and all this...The cops showed up. And since I answered yes to a certain amount of questions they asked me, they had to call the [DV Agency. They asked me if I had a safe place to go, if it was an emergency and I didn't. Then I was working towards the order of protection and I knew I was going to get it, but I wanted to talk to somebody first. So someone told me to go to the [DV Agency] just to ask to talk to someone. I did and this lady helped me out. She told me, “We have outreach counseling.” And they helped me set up the order of protection and get in contact with the courthouse. I also currently still see the counselor that she set me up with usually once a week. And I'd be willing to do support groups.” (Participant 165)

Seeking Help Depended on Survivors’ Current Situation

When survivors were deciding who to seek help from, it often depended on situational factors. For example, if there was an immediate physical threat, survivors would often turn to law enforcement. Others would seek immediate help by fleeing to a DV shelter.

“For me, I think it (was) easier seeking help from law enforcement officials. Depending on the level or the severity of the violence, it could be something that’s life threatening, something that involves arms or weapons that could cause a whole lot of havoc or detrimental injuries.” (Participant 79)

“Immediately, it was ‘I need to get out of here, I need to find somewhere safe, I need to figure out how I'm going to get clothes, how I'm going to eat, how I'm going, where I'm going to sleep’.” (Participant 179)

Other survivors were faced with complex abusive situations, and reaching out didn’t always result in immediate help.

“I actually went to my midwife and asked her for help. Because she was the only person I was able to go to without him there. And she was able to point me in the direction of safe houses or organizations. I told her everything and the only thing she could do at that point was say, “You can go here, here's the number, this is what you can do.” She obviously couldn't be like, “don't go home” because I had my kids at home. So, it's a little disheartening when you're asking somebody for help and they tell you to call a number. But I couldn’t call that number because for me, everything was being tracked. Maybe I would have been able to leave sooner if that could have been an option. ” (Participant 31)

Summary

Survivors described an array of formal supports (as well as informal support received from friends and family) that they sought. The most common formal support utilized by survivors was DV Agencies and community-based organizations. A large number had also reached out to law enforcement, and about 1 in 4 sought an Order of Protection or legal services. As survivors detailed where they sought help, it was clear that the helpseeking process was not linear. Each journey was unique and depended on immediate needs, what was available, or who survivors chose to reach out to first. Journeys also depended on knowledge of services and supports, as well as the knowledge of providers across systems.

What did survivors need the most when

they were (are)

experiencing violence?

Next, we asked survivors what they needed the most when they were experiencing violence, and most spoke about needs for formal services, especially support from therapists, counselors, and advocates. Survivors also discussed how they needed to find safe spaces, overall support, and finding validation in their experiences.

What they needed the most Examples

Needing Formal Support (28) Survivors mentioned needing support groups and support from therapists, counselors, and advocates. Survivors also mentioned needing additional services (e.g., substance use disorder services, support filling out paperwork at courthouse, rape kit at hospital) and physical supports.

Finding Safe, Supportive Space (11)

Receiving Validation (11)

Finding Support from Family and Friends (4)

Finding

Support

Survivors discussed needing to find a safe space with support in general/emotional support.

Survivors discussed needing to be taken seriously, finding validation in their experiences, having others believe them, and having people ask if they are okay.

A few survivors mentioned that they needed support and help from their friends and family the most.

and Safety were their Greatest Needs

As survivors reflected on what they needed (or need) the most, themes of needing support, as well as validation, and safety emerged across most responses. Survivors also highlighted the vital role of DV advocates in providing that support and validation.

“I really tried as much as I could to get [to safety]. And I made mention of a restraining order. I was able to (call) the hotline and get away with you know, my life. I think that was quite right and brave of me.” (Participant 218)

“I didn't really have anyone to talk to about it. I didn't tell anyone until it was towards the end. I was very isolated and I didn't really have anyone in a different town.” (Participant 202)

“Having an advocate at court changes everything. Not only in so many obvious ways, but also when you are experiencing trauma and or PTSD, having that person physically sitting beside you.” (Participant 52)

“What I needed the most, at that time was someone, validating my experience, because when you tell someone that this is happening most people don't even believe you. There's no proof whatsoever. So, I would love to be acknowledged and be told that someone can help me and that I can do this.” (Participant 9)

“What I needed most was support: a non-judgmental stance around this issue. Someone to hold space for you, support you, encourage you, and walk with you until you can make the decision to get out. If you're doing it because someone is telling you to get out, then there's really high probability you're going to go back. It can be difficult for people to do that, because they are watching it from the outside. They don't understand why someone would stay, and they want what's best for you. But it’s really important to have someone who's non-judgmental about that, and not pressuring you to leave.” (Participant 113) “For me, I would say safety, belief, and validation.” (Participant 239)

Summary

In addition to survivors describing the necessity of formal services, the majority of survivors described needing to feel supported and safe. They also discussed finding validation in their experiences, having others believe them, and having people ask if they are okay and what they needed. Finally, a key support that was mentioned was the role of DV advocates in providing that support throughout the help-seeking process.

“I

needed someone to actually share my experiences with. I needed a shoulder to lean on to be relieved of some of my emotional torture that I experienced out of the abuse. I needed a place where I could feel more secure because of threats that went through in my marriage.”

How did survivors stay safe when they were (are) experiencing violence?

Related to asking about survivors about what they needed the most when experiencing DV, we also asked survivors to reflect on what they did (or do) to stay safe. There was a mixture of responses, depending on if survivors chose to stay with their partner, or if they chose to leave.

How they stayed safe

If they stayed, they found ways to stay safe (7)

Examples

If survivors stayed with their abusers, they discussed measures they took to stay safe; these included withdrawing and stopping to talk to others, doing everything to appease them, walking on eggshells, playing along, and keeping their mouth shut.

If they left, they found ways to stay safe (5)

Planning & Information (4)

Obtaining an Order of Protection (2)

If They Stay or If They Leave

Survivors discussed leaving town and severing ties, staying away, leaving quickly with a safety plan, and moving out as ways to stay safe.

Survivors stayed safe by recording and making cases, making game plans, and collecting information necessary for services and help.

Two survivors found safety through obtaining orders of protection.

How survivors found safety depended on if they chose to stay with their partner, or if they chose to leave. Among those who chose to stay, measures were described that allowed them to still find safety (e.g., walking on eggshells, playing along). If they chose to leave, survivors highlighted ways they stayed safe, including having safety plans and severing ties with their partner. Often finding safety was also a journey, with multiple strategies to finding safety.

“(I) basically became a servant and kept my mouth shut. Just: “Yes, sir.”“What do you need?” I asked for permission into the bedroom, asked for permission to touch things, asked permission to do things. I didn't do anything without his permission, whether it was say things to the doctor for myself, or even our son didn’t go to the doctor without his permission So I was always walking on eggshells.” (Participant 35)

“What I did to stay safe… was a multitude of actions. I reported every single violation of the order of protection. I think that was really important for me to stay, I'm not one to rely on the police, I grew up kind of not looking towards the police for help and had to learn that my way of thinking was not going to get me anywhere, it was not going to get me the help I needed. I also kept low key social media- wise. I didn't advertise where I was living or what was going on in my life. And I decided, after a year of kind of being a little fearful of what was going to happen, I decided to leave and move to a different town with my kids.” (Participant 61)

Finding Safety Through Planning and Information

Survivors also discussed the importance of researching resources and services, so that they could make informed decisions in help-seeking and finding safety. Several survivors discussed the need to document the DV so they could better navigate the legal system. Several survivors also talked about needing time to develop safety plans.

“There’s a lot of times where it's hard to think about getting evidence. When it happens, think about not just making a report after the fact and not have anything to back it up. I need a way for other people to see what I see, to get results.” (Participant 65)

“It seems like there are a lot of quick fixes out there that remove yourself from the situation. But especially when it's a domestic relationship, the other party has ways of getting back at you. So just because someone has left physically, [the abuser] has ways of manipulating you, or doing other things to try to lure you back in or damage you further. And I think, had I been able to have a better resources, I could have made a cleaner get away and knowing what I need to get out, and then once I'm out, here's what I need to stay out.” (Participant 65)

Summary

Numerous strategies were described for finding safety when experiencing violence. These strategies depended on the survivor’s situation and their decisions about staying or leaving the relationship. Planning and finding out information about resources were also important in this process. Finally, two survivors also said they were specifically able to find safety by obtaining an order of protection.

How did survivors find out about the services they received?

Finding out about services largely came from formal supports making connections to other services. Other sources of information came from family or friends, as well as from informational materials (e.g., posters, pamphlets, online resources).

Find

out about services Examples

From formal services (22)

From family or friends (10)

Survivors discussed that they found out about the services they received from formal supports, including a counselor or DV agency or hotline (11), calling the police (4), from a healthcare provider (4), courthouse (1),

Survivors found out about services from family members and friends. One survivor had a family member who used

From pamphlets, posters, and online resources (9)

Other (1)

Survivors found out about services from online and social media searches (7), seeing posters (1), and from

One survivor found out about services because they

Helping to Make Connections

Many survivors discussed how one formal support led them to finding out about other services and help that they received. Friends and family also highlighted various options for services and supports for survivors, and some helped survivors reach out for support. The process of finding help sometimes took several attempts.

“I went to-it's like Planned Parenthood, but a local one-to get an exam, and they recommended counseling and whatnot.” (Participant 202).

“I was able to reach out through my family doctor who I was close to. And he was also able to introduce me to a [DV Agency] where I was helped. I also connected with the other people who experienced the same situations or issues as me.” (Participant 32)

“My friend messaged me, and was like call them (or) get to them however you can. And of course that wasn't an option for me to call or get to them. Eventually, I acquired a hidden phone that I was able to call this local organization. And I told them my situation and they really didn't do anything for me. Once I did get out, I actually traveled a couple hours away, for safety reasons, and stayed with my sister. She is a nurse and took me to the domestic violence shelter here where I'm currently living. They are truly like a godsend. I cannot thank them enough for everything they've done and are doing for me and my kids.” (Participant 31)

Importance of Visible Information and Resources

Across focus groups, many survivors talked about finding out about resources through online and social media searches, seeing posters, and receiving pamphlets and brochures. Discussed later, it was recommended that states continue to widely advertise DV services and resources so that survivors are knowledgeable about their support options.

“I just I went on Google and I wrote down every single place and every single number and I called all of them and put my name on every single waitlist. And it took about six months before I was able to get any kind of help. So, I think an area that needs help is access to services seems quite limited.” (Participant 113)

“When I spoke with the advocate for [the DV Agency] through the court systems, she's the one that told me about what was in place. I got quite a few pamphlets and brochures on the services that were offered.” (Participant 61)

“My old job had cards in the ladies’ restrooms that say, “There is support.” And I believe that they were in the men's restroom, too. So, I'm glad that it's not gender specific.” (Participant46)

Summary

Finding out about formal services came from a variety of sources, including connections from other formal supports, from family and friends, and from informational materials.

What barriers did survivors encounter when trying to access services?

Next, we asked if survivors encountered barriers accessing, or trying to access services. Accessibility barriers were described the most in focus groups, including access to shelters, transportation, time to respond and waitlists, and policy criteria and eligibility restrictions that created accessibility barriers. A variety of other barriers were also noted.

Barriers Examples

Accessibility Issues & Issues Related to Policy Criteria and Eligibility (20)

Stigma, Shame, Fear of Retaliation (10)

Survivors discussed accessibility of services as a barrier (e.g., accessing domestic violence shelters), transportation, time to respond and length of waitlists, criteria and eligibility restrictions on housing and financial policies, and access barriers if children were involved.

Survivors discussed feelings of stigma, shame, and fear of retaliation. Two survivors mentioned that barriers existed because they were in a small town and everyone would know about their situation, and one person mentioned their mutual friends would find out.

Barriers within Formal Systems (10)

If survivors reached out to formal systems, they discussed further barriers that impacted access. For example, survivors felt that the police had a lack of training, didn’t have a level of care, or didn’t do anything. Barriers existed at the courthouse with getting Orders of Protection, navigating the legal system, or having legal representatives who didn’t care for the client.

Survivors also discussed a lack of trust in most formal systems.

Mental Health Concerns, Emotions, and Perceptions (8)

Their Partner was a Barrier (7)

Survivors discussed that their own mental health and mental states were barriers to access services (e.g., depression, PTSD, feeling lonely, isolated). One survivor was worried that providers would perceive them as someone trying to destroy a family.

Survivors felt that their partners were barriers, including their partners’ mental health concerns, their manipulative and controlling behaviors or having a partner who was related to someone on the police.

Financial Barriers (7)

Language, Cultural, Identity, and Social Barriers (6)

Not

Being Believed or Being Questioned (5)

Other (2)

Survivors discussed finances as barriers to accessing services. For example, one survivor said due to extreme financial abuse, they were unable to leave or seek services.

Survivors mentioned that aspects of their identity created barriers. Other barriers included a lack of translators at services, languages used, and cultural differences in disclosing domestic violence.

Survivors were worried about not being believed or understood and being rejected or questioned.

One survivor said that because they had one bad experience seeking help, they stopped looking for help. Another said that because of COVID-19, they felt that formal supports stopped asking them about domestic violence and their safety because of other pandemic concerns.

An Array of Barriers was Common Barriers were mentioned in every focus group; survivors noted barriers around accessibility, stigma, barriers within formal systems (e.g., lack of training), mental health concerns, their partners’ behaviors, financial, identity-related barriers, and not being believed. Across most of these discussions, most survivors noted multiple barriers, further adding to the complexity of the help-seeking process.

“You know, I don't think police are trained for caring. I mean, they are not here to serve and protect anymore. They're here to enforce laws. He or she who hurt you, broke the law. They get taken away. That's all they provide.” (Participant46)

“My boyfriend was so controlling. I could do nothing without him finding out so, it was almost impossible to get any sort of help without him being there and controlling the narrative.” (Participant 202)

“I think my biggest challenge was when I wanted to access a shelter home. I never came across any shelter home for men facing domestic violence.” (Participant 26)

“I wasn't told that you can only turn in an order of protection before 11:30am. So, I had to go the next day. Orders of protection should be made available at any point during the court houses’ hours of operation, and the police station should be made aware of those times to maximize efficiency, seeing as these types of orders are more often than not time sensitive.” (Participant 46)

Barriers Can Be Intertwined

An array of barriers were noted, though often numerous barriers were discussed as a survivor described navigating the help-seeking process. For example, many survivors listed multiple barriers talking about how they cumulatively impacted their help-seeking process and reception of services.

“My faced barrier was shame and stigma. There is a fear about our financial resources, while you are seeking services, maybe a transportation to go see a therapist, and all sorts of stuff like that. And I think those are also a barrier to people during that time if you are unable to work, and you are actually depending on finance from people. And that may make you feel like you are a burden to people.” (Participant 238)

“First there is that stigma that you don't want to expose your problems. But I think one thing that really should be easier to access is the shelters because my biggest challenge, and what did hold me back from accessing, or maybe running away from violence was shelter. Because I was staying at [my abuser’s] place, they have a place of power.” (Participant 26)

“I faced some stigma, some setbacks, some issues being neglected, and stereotypes accessing services. I had fears of not being understood, fears of not seeking the necessary help, and I felt that, I might not get a positive outcome in my situation. I felt depressed, I lacked an approach on how to relate this information to [the advocates] and felt they might not really understand at some point. This caused me to isolate myself, and I felt lonely.” (Participant 217)

“I think due to culture, financial issues, and the degree of violence physical versus emotional stuff-- might dictate where somebody would go. If there's a potential for more physical violence with police involved, maybe they shy away from that. I think that depending on the person, there's a lot of shame around domestic violence. And maybe they'll lean on a friend and not go seek something that's formal, because of the shame that's attached to being involved in those types of situations.” (Participant 113)

“Because the systems are so specialized and separated and you need them at different times, then you have to educate yourself, like you're getting a Master's or PhD in public works, or family law while you're trying to protect yourself and your kids and not lose your home or even your sanity. .” (Participant 10)

Figure 5. Barriers reported by survivors about accessing or receiving formal supports.

Summary

Barriers were mentioned in every focus group. As shown in Figure 5, survivors noted barriers around accessibility, stigma, barriers within formal systems (e.g., lack of training), mental health concerns, their partners’ behaviors, financial, identity-related barriers, and not being believed. Across most of these discussions, most survivors noted multiple barriers, further adding to the complexity of the help-seeking process.

What services were particularly helpful for survivors?

Some survivors discussed services that were particularly helpful to them. Most of these helpful services came from DV agencies, as well as counseling and support groups.

Helpful Services Examples

Supports from DV agencies (9)

Supports from Counseling/ Therapy and Support Groups (9)

Community and Communitybased Organizations (3)

Survivors discussed that domestic violence agencies and their programming, services, advocacy, safety planning, and hotlines were particularly helpful.

Survivors disclosed that the support they received from counseling and therapy was helpful, including support groups and family groups.

Survivors mentioned community-based organizations that helped provide housing and financial assistance. One survivor said their community was there for them in their time of need.

Police (2)

Other Components that were Helpful (5)

A survivor said that the individual officers they worked with were particularly helpful; another survivor said they got the help they needed from the police.

In addition to services that survivors found helpful, survivors also mentioned that having online and telehealth options were helpful (2), having quick responses, transparent, non-judgmental supports were

Supports were Particularly Helpful If All Needs were Met

Across the supports that survivors found to be particularly helpful, survivors talked about how these services were able to understand them, have cultural competence, were reassuring, and were able to provide comprehensive services. Also, services were perceived as helpful if survivors felt that all of their needs were met.

“For me, the community-based organizations were helpful because they can understand my culture, they can understand my well-being, my family system, my education They reacted positively to my needs.” (Participant 32)

“What actually amazed me was [social workers] working with the law enforcement. They were ready to give out a restraining order to my abuser. And they were open arms to me. They are reassuring and so they are topnotch. They are a listening ear and try to get everything they needed in order to help me. This went a long way to help me and gave me more confidence in myself and my environment.” (Participant 218)

“I'm from a racial minority background and I was worried about some level of discrimination when seeking services, and how that will affect my mental health and also the care I'm about to receive, because I think that if not for my ethnicity, my condition would be taken seriously. To the best of my knowledge, these things were addressed very appropriately. And any worries about the problems I actually had initially, the service were very accurate and competent.” (Participant 238)

“A few months after I left, I ended up in a situation where I needed to get an order of protection from him and the [DV Agency] were actually the ones who recognized that he had hurt me pretty badly. But they walked me through the entire process of getting the order of protection, they went to court with me, they even drove me because I could not drive myself, I was so terrified. And they have been with me every single step of the way. I have court this Thursday, and they will be there with me. they also have a transitional housing program that I am getting into...They're really, really great about making sure you have what you need and they'll go just beyond what I could have imagined, making sure that as long as you are doing the work, showing up for counseling, or sticking to whatever you've agreed to with them. They're going to bend over backwards to try to help you succeed and not fall back into that pattern of abuse that you've been in. I can't imagine being anywhere else. So, so grateful!” (Participant 31)

Summary

Formal supports, including supports from DV agencies, counseling, therapy, and support groups, supports from community and community-based organizations, and supports from police were all discussed as helpful. Survivors felt that services were particularly helpful if all their needs were met, if providers understood them, had cultural competence, were reassuring, and were able to provide comprehensive services. Other support elements that were helpful were having online and telehealth options, as well as quick responses, transparency, and nonjudgmental supports.

Did survivors feel that they received the help they needed?

After reflecting on their help-seeking process, we asked survivors if they felt they received the help they needed. While a good number felt that they did, there was also a handful of survivors who felt mixed support (i.e., not every need was addressed). Also, many discussions focused on survivors who did not feel they received the help they needed, often referencing back to barriers that were described previously.

Perceptions of Help

Help was received from DV Services and Mental Health Professionals (16)

Examples

When survivors sought support from DV agencies and mental health providers, they felt that these services were helpful, vitally important, reassuring, and validating. Four survivors specifically discussed the help they received from domestic violence shelters. Four survivors mentioned the importance of having advocates to guide them every step of the way and having advocates in law enforcement and legal settings.

Help was received from Police and Courts (7)

Help was received from Informal Supports (2)

Mixture of Unhelpful and Helpful Supports or Complex Situations (14)

Seven survivors felt that they received the help they needed from police (5) and courts (2). Three survivors mentioned the care that individual police officers displayed, and one survivor noted that the co-response model (i.e., police + social worker) working “hand-inhand” was particularly helpful.

Two survivors felt that they support they received from family and friends was particularly helpful.

Some survivors felt that services weren’t particularly helpful at various stages, or the systems were too difficult to navigate. Three survivors discussed how help felt temporary and didn’t help in the long-term. Survivors also disclosed how certain services were not viable (due to children, housing barriers, how police questioned them) and some had to seek services at different organizations (e.g., one couldn't obtain housing due to long waitlists, so found housing through refugee center).

Although services were sought, survivors did not feel they received the help they needed (21)

Survivors felt that they didn’t receive the help they needed from law enforcement (7), courts (5), or either legal system (2). Survivors discussed feeling forced into adversarial scenarios, coercive situations within systems, police not enforcing orders of protection or not feeling cared for. One described the legal system as dehumanizing.

Survivors also felt they didn’t receive the help they needed from domestic violence agencies (5), feeling it was hard to qualify for housing or other services.

Barriers Prevented Survivors From Fully Receiving Help

Survivors discussed the various services they sought and many felt they received the help they needed. However, a large number still felt that services weren’t fully helpful (e.g., systems were too difficult to manage, barriers were present), some perceived these services to be a mixture of helpful and not, and some simply felt they didn’t receive the help they needed. Several noted that services are helpful in the moments they were experiencing DV or a crisis, but this help was short-lived.

“Most domestic violence services offer immediate assistance and crisis intervention. So, for us to heal long term, [it’s going to take] more than the services that are provided. It requires some form of self-determination and some form of empowerment, which is beyond domestic violence services. I think the healing journey was more of me than the services we got.” (Participant 159)

Summary

While some survivors confirmed that they received the help they needed from DV agencies, mental health professionals, police and courts, and informal supports, there was a handful of survivors who felt mixed support or felt that they did not receive the help they needed. Barriers were highlighted again, as well as feelings of being forced into adversarial scenarios, coercive situations, police not enforcing Orders of Protection, or not feeling cared for.

How did survivors perceive online supports?

A few of the focus groups discussed the helpful role of online supports, and participants gave recommendations pertaining to online resources. Several mentioned the need for online support groups and educational resources.

Online Supports Examples

Helpfulness of Online Resources (4)

Recommendations for Online Resources (13)

Survivors discussed how online resources were helpful; Zoom allowed more access to supports, telehealth options created “one less worry,” seeing TikTok videos helped a survivor feel comfort knowing they weren’t alone, and a survivor highlighted the “amazing resources online.”

Survivors highlighted ways in which online resources could be strengthened. Examples included having more online support groups (7), more educational resources (5), additional information on orders of protection and restraining orders, access to safety planning and referrals, and using online resources to increase awareness. One survivor highlighted the importance of safety considerations with online resources.

“TikTok for me, I've been on there and like, I've seen so many women kind of talk about what's been going on with them.” (Participant 202)

“Telehealth is just one less [thing to] worry about if you have children. Instead of trying to get a babysitter or traveling with them, figuring out transportation, just being able to jump on a call like this it just makes it a little bit more accessible one less thing to worry about perhaps.” (Participant 138)

“And the fact that you can actually reach out to a random person, a stranger, and maybe talk and resolve your feelings to a stranger. Apart from that a lot of informational resources, like you can watch videos of people telling their stories about domestic violence. You can read articles or maybe something and they can have you inspired. So I think online support is a formidable resource and can play a huge role in addressing domestic violence.” (Participant 26)

“But just be careful. We always have to be really careful because people can get access to our stories, and utilize those if they're friends of our exes.” (Participant 35)

“I think the online resources will help in educating and giving proper information: trying to educate, how to recognize signs of abuse, understanding your rights, knowing what to do at a particular time, and trying to learn about available resources and services. And, knowing more about safety planning, to provide maybe tools and some guidelines to help victims develop personalized safety plans without being harmed. And having good referrals to legal aid organizations, that could go a long way to help. Also, there could be a space for counseling for people who are actually going through this situation, having a support group.” (Participant 217)

Summary

Online supports were mentioned in a handful of focus groups. Four survivors discussed how online resources were helpful. Other focus group discussions centered around recommendations for building out online resources, including more online support groups, educational resources, and information about supports and services offered.

A man and woman working together at a laptop in a living room. The man, wearing a black turban, is using a calculator, while a woman smiles and rests her hands on his shoulders.

How did aspects of survivors’identity or identities affect the services received?

Survivors were asked if aspects of their identity (or identities) affected the services they received. A few survivors talked about how their identity served as a facilitator to services, though the majority talked about the negative impacts their identity or identities had on the services they sought or received.

Identity or Identities Examples

Gender (21) Most survivors described gender as a barrier. For example, women described the system as “anti-woman,” belittling, and dehumanizing (10). Men also faced barriers related to gender, seeing gender bias, services being based on supports for women, and providers not believing that men can be victims (8).

However, three survivors saw gender as a facilitator towards receiving support, saying being a woman made it easier for them to seek services, and legal support was helpful when a woman had a female judge. Another survivor described the system as changing and being more supportive of women and diverse gender identities.

Race and Culture (6) Five survivors saw their race and cultural background negatively affecting the services they received, talking about being denied housing based on race, being rejected and questioned, racial stereotyping and profiling, and a lack of cultural awareness and norms within services.

One survivor saw culture as a facilitator, when their service provider had the same cultural background; this allowed for better understanding.

LGBTQ+ (4)

Survivors felt that sexual orientation impacted services received from law enforcement (2), as police didn’t take the violence seriously. Another survivor said that their sexual orientation led to discrimination.

However, having a provider who understood their gender identity

Disability (4)

Religion (2)

Intersectionality (6)

Other (9)

Four survivors discussed the role of disability; three survivors discussed how their disabilities meant that they were unable to understand the steps outlined for them, that services were not tailored for them, and one talked about how services were retracted because of their disability. One survivor also talked about how they had a difficult time finding housing close enough to a school for their child with disabilities.

Two survivors discussed the role of religion. One felt that their Catholic upbringing created barriers as it was not common for them to disclose domestic violence to professionals.

However, another survived said that having similarities in religion helped with the level of help they received when seeking services.

Survivors talked about how the unique combination of their identities contributed to the services they received. For example, one survivor stated that his identity as a Native American male, with mixed race, impacted the attention he received. Another felt that not being white woman mean they didn’t have a voice.

Two participants discussed how their intersectional identity of being white women meant “no one would turn them away.”

Other aspects of identity were discussed, including socio-economic status, history of substance abuse, and needing dual language/bilingual providers. They all felt they were unable to get support because of these aspects of their identity.

One survivor discussed that their generation (Gen Z) shaped how others saw them when accessing services. Two survivors felt that having an identity as a parent also contributed to difficulties with receiving help.

Gender was a Common Identity that Impacted Perceptions of Services Received

The most common identity that was discussed by survivors was related to their gender. While most described their gender as a barrier to supports, a number of survivors did see gender as a possible facilitator of services. Across these experiences, several survivors elevated the importance of expanding services to be more inclusive to people of all gender identities.

“That was the automatic thing that I thought it was because I'm a woman I'm lying. From the getgo. That was the ultimate thing. And because and another thing is to with my ex being a police officer, well he is a police officers automatically telling the truth…. So I was very much just hitting walls. Because I'm a woman, I'm lying.” (Participant 35)

“I think my situation is unique to being a man. Many services out here are only focused on women. Seeking services as a man is difficult. The process for me to go out looking for services. The first place I went to...I did call the police because the situation was aggravated. And it wasn't easy for me.” (Participant 26)

“I know for me being a young, white female especially with children when I went in there was really never any doubt, they immediately believed me and they wanted to help me; I did not have to prove it or show evidence that awful things were happening….Maybe just having more services or more awareness that it's not just women. You know, transgender included. It can be anybody, anytime, anywhere.” (Participant 31)

“But honestly, being a woman seeking out domestic violence services, it probably was easier for me, because people forget about men.” (Participant 165)

Person wearing a white T-shirt with text and blue jeans with a black belt. Text on the t-shirt reads: Friends. Mothers. Daughters. Visionaries. Queens. Rulers. Women.

Most Aspects of Identity (or Identities) Impacted Perceptions

Other aspects of survivors’ identities were seen as barriers that affected services received. Identities that were discussed were one’s race, culture, sexual orientation, disability status, socioeconomic status, and others. Additionally, several survivors detailed how intersecting identities also contributed as barriers. Although most survivors discussed how identity negatively impacted services, several also discussed that having providers with similar backgrounds and identities contributed to better supports.

“I was worried about if the available services are culturally sensitive or that there was an awareness of my cultural norms and values. I also feel like it was not really important for me to seek outside help. It’s a part of my culture that issues like this cannot be disclosed openly, especially to people you don't know, I think it was supposed to be an internal support system, where I could reach out to a family member or people within an organization that I've really been with for a very long time Because of discrimination and biases that are within society, I was worried because I'm from a racial minority.” (Participant 238)

“I think that I probably waited longer than I should have to try to reach out and seek help. Not only because I'm a male, but also, I'm mixed race. Being Native American, there's a lot of domestic violence within the Native American community. There's also a lot of apathy. “ (Participant 65)

“Everything they do is geared towards women, which I understand why, but also, I think it'd be very hard for a gay man or even a straight man with a wife to seek help when they don't know about it.” (Participant 202)

“Because I left the door unlocked. And in that way I couldn't get a restraining order because the judge said I wasn't scared of her enough to keep my doors locked. So because I forgot to lock my door, it gave her an okay. You know what I mean? It was, and I feel that was because we're both two women.” (Participant 179)

“I feel like the LGBTQI community are really most impacted based on discrimination, because of identity.” (Participant 81)

“I received no accommodations through the court, there was bias and discrimination through accessing things, because with my disability. I process things differently and I speak differently. People just didn't understand me the same. Sometimes I would word things differently. I also grew up differently culturally. So, they didn't understand that.” (Participant 35)

Person wearing a red jacket and blue sunglasses in an urban setting.

Two individuals gesturing with their hands during a conversation in a room with lightcolored shelves and decor in the background.

“Being a woman and then a mother in the systems that do really feel very slanted, toward male protection. It’s gaslighting all over again. For example, I need to be in contact with my abuser almost daily now. I'm forced to do this. However, if I were listened to and believed, and if what I said, and my experiences held some weight in the system, then this situation would be very different. Right? So, woman, Mom.. (thumbs down).” (Participant 10)

“I went to police station a couple times trying to get an order protection against her because we did live together. And I don't know if it's in general, or if it's just with same sex couples, but I was not taken seriously. Because she is smaller than I am. But that doesn't mean that I wasn’t able to defend myself that way. That's just not who I am as a person.” (Participant 179)

Person with a white long cane walking on a dirt path in a park with trees and a bench.

“I feel my financial stability, my cultural identity, and probably disability status actually played a part because I identify as someone who's autistic and I think I got some retracted services at some point. Probably because I was psychologically unstable, I wasn't able to dish out the very best information that was needed. I think at that point, I was given a little bit less attention. My cultural background, or identifiers. I think played a vital role. The services I got weren't fit for people that had some level of disability.” (Participant 236)

Summary

Across focus groups, a survivors’ identity or identities played a significant role in the help they sought or received. As the majority identified barriers, these findings highlight the importance of striving for more inclusive, culturally competent services across systems of care. Further, having diverse practitioners, advocates, service providers, officers, healthcare providers, legal personnel, and other careholders are seen as essential for survivors to feel comfortable, supported, and able to receive help.

Two smiling individuals holding hands in a celebratory pose showcasing a wedding band, with a blurred background.

Two women sitting and talking in a sunlit room with potted plants in the background.

Three topless individuals stand close together against a white background, looking at the camera.

What recommendations did survivors suggest for formal support systems?

We concluded the focus groups asking survivors about recommendations. Due to the volume of recommendations offered, we organized these recommendations in two ways: first, we present the recommendations specific for systems (e.g., for DV Agencies, for Courts and Legal Systems, etc.); second, we present recommendations for overall practices (across services).

Recommendations Examples

Recommendations for DV Agencies and Mental Health

Supports (18)

Recommendations for Courts and Legal System (14)

Five survivors talked about needing greater access to DV shelters (e.g., reducing waitlists, having shelters for men). Recommendations were also provided around enhancing the availability and quality of mental health supports, types of therapy, and support groups (9). One survivor discussed the importance of more comprehensive services at domestic violence agencies, and another talked about extending timing that survivors can access services through agencies. One survivor talked about continuing to train and monitor professionals to ensure quality service provision.

Three survivors suggested having more legal advocates from domestic violence agencies in courthouses. Survivors discussed increasing education and training within the legal system (2), while also providing survivors with more education about navigating the legal system (2). Also, a few survivors suggested a review of policies and laws, as well as accessibility to court services and paperwork.

Recommendations for Law

Enforcement (11)

Survivors discussed increasing education and training of law enforcement around topics of domestic violence (6), having co-response models (with police and social work; 3), increasing communication (1), and fixing issues (e.g., police disclosing personal details of cases; 1).

Recommendations for Medical Settings (9)

Overall Recommendations for Formal Services (39)

Survivors discussed increasing education and training for medical professionals, so they know how to connect survivors to services. Survivors talked about having Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and rape kits available at hospitals. One survivor suggested having advocates from domestic violence agencies at hospitals so they can get resources to survivors right away.

Overall recommendations were given for accessibility, enhancing climate and inclusivity, policies and practices, and timing of services. These are further detailed in the next section where overall practices are further organized.

Coordination of Formal Systems (16)

Increasing Prevention Programs (5)

Recommendations for Family and Friends (5)

Recommendations to Increase Awareness (24)

Recommendations were given that suggested enhancing system coordination, guidance for all types of formal services, and having advocates in all aspects of the system.

Five survivors recommended increasing prevention programs in schools to enhance education and access to resources.

Survivors discussed enhancing education, training, and resources for family and friends. Two survivors recommended a hotline or resources specially for friends and family to access.

Recommendations were given to enhance awareness and general knowledge about domestic violence. Further refinement of these codes is in the next section, but examples include having more flyers and resources posted, more online resources and sharing of stories, and learning about forms of domestic violence, red flags, and statistics.

Not Only do Formal Supports Need Improvements, Coordination is Necessary

A common theme that emerged when survivors recommended improvements for formal support systems was more training and education, as well as better coordination and collaboration. For example, no matter where a survivor starts their journey, having coordination would greatly enhance the help-seeking process. Suggestions included having co-response models and embedding domestic professionals in diverse spaces.

“Why can't we have a domestic violence curriculum? In law school? Why can't we have domestic violence professionals go and give guest lectures or even have survivors come and talk. So, they can have that in their mind to refer to when their peers and their mentors in the legal system are encouraging them to just fall into line and laugh at the victims? Or not laugh at us but to disparage us because we didn't have, you know, the follow through? I think clearly it is systemic, the problems are systemic, but those who hold the power to make the laws, enforce the laws, and change the laws, those are the people that are some of the biggest problems here.” (Participant 52)

“To have a domestic violence professional on hand in a crisis scenario would change things in crucial ways. Law enforcement is unequipped to understand and even recognize domestic violence situations. And I think that [co-response] models are critical. We need domestic violence professionals to be on hand.” (Participant 52)

“There is no system and no coordination between providers. From my experience working in health care, it's very compartmentalized until they want what they want. There is no team effort, there is no smoothness in organizations working together.” (Participant 35)

“If we had trauma informed professionals, first responders, other professionals who are involved, that would make a critical difference. More domestic violence advocates at the courthouse, and then police that are actively willing to collaborate, and partner with domestic violence professionals.”

Recommendations for Overall Practices

Increase education and training about domestic violence across formal and informal support systems (39)

Enhance overall service practices, such as offering quality practices, diverse types of practices and supports, and comprehensive practices (16)

Strengthen organizational climates to reduce stigma, have confidentiality, enhance trust, and create safer spaces for disclosure (15)

Create more collaborative systems, enhance communication, and have more coresponse and collaborative service models (11)

Strengthen inclusivity within systems, e.g., culturally responsive services (8)

Increase flyers, advertisements, websites, forums, and social media posts to increase

Review and modify laws and policies related to domestic violence (6)

Men can be victims too, so have more services and access for men (5)

Increase the number of shelters and access to temporary housing (5)

Provide more navigation and guidance support when accessing within and across different systems (5)

Services should have quick response times, but also have more long-term follow-up and extend the length of time that organizations can provide services (5)

Enhance accessibility, including more transportation (5)

Have services provide more supports and care if children are involved (3)

Provide financial supports to survivors and increase funding to organizations (3)

Have shelters and supports for abusers (3)

Allow shelters to take pets (3)

Provide trauma-informed services across systems (3)

Overall Practices Need to Be Strengthened

Across recommendations specific to formal supports, as well as general practices, survivors were recommending increased education and training about domestic violence in all formal and informal support systems. Quality practices need to be offered, as well as comprehensive services, while continuing to work to reduce stigma and create safer spaces for disclosure.

“I would say better laws and better accessibility, for domestic violence beyond physical I mean. I know they did the federal law, they signed that. But Illinois still doesn't recognize it. I wish they had better training for judges and first responders. Less judgement, less bias. More access for people. And because I mean, even culturally, things are different. The societal change.” (Participant 35)

“It feels necessary to actually engage service providers to respect the cultural backgrounds from survivors. It's very necessary to ensure that the services are available in a multilingual aspect, because a lot of people with different languages are out there having these problems, and they don't know how or where to go to seek services, that will be very understandable to them in terms of translating documentation. They don't have people who would interpret. Most of the services are only for a particular gender identity, and people may have a fear of not being included, or a fear of not having a sense of belonging in some of the services. So, I think it's necessary to encourage people of different identities to actually help them understand that services are very much inclusive to them as well.” (Participant 238)

“I know a lot of people who don't leave because shelters don't accept pets. I know the shelter that I go to is like the only one in Illinois that does actually accept pets for people escaping violence. Obviously pets are important to a lot of people but for some people they literally stay because they're afraid that the dog will be killed or they can't leave their cats or whatever it might be.” (Participant 31)

Two people seated in wooden armchairs facing each other, having a conversation, with a large window and a clock in the background.

Awareness and Prevention are Vitally Important

Survivors detailed the importance of increasing awareness of domestic violence. Awareness can lead to more knowledge of resources, better response systems that are trauma-informed and victim-centered. One way to increase awareness is to increase prevention programs in schools so youth are taught about healthy relationships early on. Resources can also be embedded within schools so that youth are aware of resources

“I think some kind of guidebook or game plan would be helpful. I think that when you first know what red flags to look for, then knowing what action to take when you see those red flags is something that you don't have at the ready. It's hard to have a clear head when you're in that situation. And if you're being attacked you're not thinking clearly, you're not thinking strategically” (Participant 65)

“I think it's necessary [to have an] awareness campaign, to educate the community about domestic violence, because a lot of people are still in the situation where they don't even know that they are experiencing domestic violence. It's also very important to understand that undocumented immigrants are often very concerned about assessment. If possible, services should be provided without requiring immigration status. A lot of people may not really want to disclose their immigration status because they often have a fear of deportation and issues like this, always very making it very less common for people to seek services because of fear of disclosing their immigration status.” (Participant 238)

“I think starting even in high school, and maybe people who could come and present to the students to guide them like beyond health class where they sort of touch on the subject of domestic violence and relationships but I think if there were different people talking about how common this is and that it can affect anybody from anywhere.”

Summary

Survivors provided a large collection of recommendations, specific to systems (e.g., recommendations for DV agencies, police), as well as overall practices. System-specific recommendations included more training and education related to DV, as well as better coordination and collaboration across systems (e.g., co-response models, embedding DV professionals in diverse spaces). Overall practices recommendations were also provided, including the provision of comprehensive, long-term services, while continuing to work to reduce stigma and create safer spaces for disclosure. Survivors also detailed the importance of increasing awareness of domestic violence, while also providing more prevention programs.

Two people hugging in front of a light green wall.

Close-up of two young men standing closely together, looking at the camera. They are wearing scarves and Two young women seated together, with one smiling down and the other looking up.

“(There’s a) very big need for a wraparound, comprehensive understanding of What domestic violence really is, and all the parts of it. Helping survivors understand the fallout that it has on a relationship, and why it can be so difficult for them to leave. Because it's not just about the partner that they're with. It's about all the other years that created this situation.”

3: Follow-up Survey Results

Focus Group Follow-up Survey Results

After participating in a focus group, survivors were asked to complete a brief survey. Some of the results are presented here. For other survey results or inquires, please email rcgarthe@illinois.edu

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): To further understand histories with victimization and adversity, we assessed focus group participant’s experiences with ACEs. This sample of survivors had high occurrences of ACEs. For example, a staggering 71% of participants experienced verbal and physical abuse as children. Across all ACEs, 91% of the sample experienced at least one ACE, and 73% experienced four or more ACEs. The average number of ACEs endorsed was 5.61 (SD = 3.59).

Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

with Someone with Mental Health

with Somone Involved in Criminal Legal

or Considered/

Social Support: In general, more than half of the survivors reported forms of social support. For example, 82% felt there are people they can depend on to help them if they really need it; 80% felt there was someone they could turn to for advice if they were having problems. Around half of the participants felt that they had social support in online spaces.

There are people I can depend on to help me if I really need it.

There are people I can turn to for guidance in times of stress.

If something went wrong, someone would come to my assistance.

There is someone I could talk to about important decisions in my life.

There is a trustworthy person I could turn to for advice if I were having 80%

There is someone I can depend on for aid if I really need it.

There is someone I feel comfortable talking about problems with.

There are people I can count on in an emergency.

People show that they care about me online.

Online, people make me feel like I belong.

Online, people would tell me where to find help if I needed it.

Other Aspects of their Socio-Demographic & Household:

• Current Housing: 64% of survivors were currently renting housing, 23% owned, 10% were living in housing owned or rented by someone else (e.g., with friends or relative)

• Household: 39% were living alone, 30% with biological child(ren), 18% with a partner or spouse, 14% with a friend or roommate, 5% with a parent or caregiver, 5% with stepchild(ren), 5% with siblings, and 2% another family member

• Relationship Status: 43% divorced or separated, 25% not in a relationship/single, 18% in a relationship, 9% married, 4% open relationship

• Employment: 34% were employed part-time, 32% employed full-time, 25% were looking for employment, 4% were students, 4% were homemakers

• Approximate gross household income (past 12 months): ranged from $0 to $200,000. Average was $44,686 (SD = 43625.15) and median was $32,500.

• Highest level of education completed: About 61% of the sample had an Associate’s Degree or higher for their highest level of education.

• Internet Access: 89% had Internet access in their home or primary place of residence

• Food Insecurity: 77% experienced at least one indicator of food insecurity in the past 3 months

• Religious Beliefs/Spirituality: 71% Christian, 18% Catholic, 9% Spiritual, 9% Agnostic, 2% Atheist, and 14% Another (note: multiple beliefs could be selected so numbers do not total 100%)

Conclusions

Conclusions

In 13 focus groups, with 46 survivors of domestic violence (DV), we heard about their help -seeking process, including how they found out about services, aspects they found particularly helpful (or not), barriers they encountered, strategies they used to stay safe, and how aspects of their identity or identities impacted the services they sought or received. Survivors concluded with recommendations for formal support systems and general practices.

Some of the key findings include:

 Survivors sought help from a variety of formal response systems, though the most common was DV Agencies and Community-based Organizations. Survivors also commonly sought help from law enforcement, obtained an Order of Protection, or help from other legal services. For many, the help-seeking process was a journey: survivors often described reaching out to a support system, who connected them with other services or supports. Each journey described was unique, depending on their immediate needs, the availability of services, their knowledge of supports, or situational factors.

 When survivors were experiencing violence, they needed formal supports the most, especially from mental health providers and support groups. Survivors needed to feel supported and safe, validated, and believed. DV advocates were a key support mentioned throughout the help-seeking process.

 In order to stay safe when experiencing violence, survivors discussed that strategies largely depended on their situation (i.e., if they stayed in the relationship or if they left). Important to the process of finding safety was obtaining information and safety planning. Obtaining Orders of Protection also was a specific method described for staying safe.

 Survivors found out about the services they received from formal supports making connections to other services. Family and friends also helped survivors find supports; survivors also obtained information from posters, pamphlets, and online resources.

Key Findings,

continued

 In every focus group, survivors discussed barriers when trying to access services. These barriers included: 1) accessibility issues and issues related to policy criteria and eligibility, 2) stigma, shame, and fear of retaliation, 3) barriers within formal systems, 4) mental health concerns, emotions, and perceptions, 5) their partner was a barrier, 6) financial barriers, 7) language, cultural, identity, and social barriers, 8) not being believed or being questioned, or 9) other barriers. Many survivors noted multiple barriers, further adding to the complexity of the help-seeking process.

 Services that were particularly helpful to survivors came from DV agencies, as well as counseling and support groups.

 While some survivors confirmed that they received the help they needed from DV agencies, mental health professionals, police and courts, and informal supports, there was a handful of survivors who felt mixed support or felt that they did not receive the help they needed. Barriers were highlighted, as well as feelings of being forced into adversarial scenarios, coercive situations, police not enforcing Orders of Protection, or not feeling cared for.

 Survivors mentioned the helpful role of online supports, and participants gave recommendations specifically pertaining to online resources. Several mentioned the need for more online support groups and educational resources.

 Survivors’ identity or identities played a significant role in the help-seeking process and in the help they received. Most of the discussions centered around barriers, highlighting the importance of more inclusive, culturally competent services across systems of care. Aspects of identity that were discussed as barriers included: 1) gender, 2) race and culture, 3) LGBTQ+ identity, 4) disability status, 5) religion, 6) intersectionality, or 7) other (e.g., history of substance use disorder, generational differences, socioeconomic status, or needing bilingual services). A few survivors discussed how their identity served as a facilitator to receiving help, especially when they had identities that matched or were similar to their service provider.

 Survivors provided recommendations to improve formal supports: 1) specifically within DV agencies and mental health providers, within courts and the legal system, for law enforcement and within medical settings, and 2) across overall practices (listed below), including better coordination of formal systems of care.

 Increase education and training about domestic violence across formal and informal support systems

 Enhance overall service practices, such as offering quality practices, diverse types of practices and supports, and comprehensive practices

 Strengthen organizational climates to reduce stigma, have confidentiality, enhance trust, and create safer spaces for disclosure

 Create more collaborative systems, enhance communication, and have more co-response and collaborative service models

 Strengthen inclusivity within systems, e.g., culturally responsive services

 Increase flyers, advertisements, websites, forums, and social media posts to increase awareness

 Review and modify laws and policies related to domestic violence

 Men can be victims too, so have more services and access for men

 Increase the number of shelters and access to shelters

 Provide more navigation and guidance support when accessing within and across different systems

 Services should have quick response times, but also have more long-term follow-up and extend the length of time that organizations can provide services

 Enhance accessibility, including more transportation

 Have services provide more supports and care if children are involved

 Provide financial supports to survivors and increase funding to organizations

 Have shelters and supports for abusers

 Allow shelters to take pets

 Provide trauma-informed services across systems

Limitations: The current study utilized a purposive sampling strategy to ensure we heard from a large proportion of minoritized groups in Illinois. However, this means that our sample was not representative of all DV survivors in Illinois. Additionally, we recruited survivors from DV agencies and community-based organizations, so the survivors who participated in the screening survey were still connected to those networks in some capacity. This sample was also unique in that survivors had reached out for some type of formal and/or informal support.

Thus, although this sampling strategy provided us an in-depth look at a diverse sample of DV survivors, there are groups that are not represented in this report. For example, what is missing from this report are the perceptions of survivors who have not yet sought help, those who are unable to access services, those who are not knowledgeable about DV services available to them, those who are still currently experiencing DV and are unable to seek help, or those who are no longer connected to a DV agency or organization in their community. Future research is needed to expand these results and further understand the help-seeking process among adult survivors. Additionally, we had lower participation from Northern and Southern parts of the state. More focus groups are necessary to ensure we hear from more diverse perspectives of survivors in these regions of Illinois.

Take-aways: These focus groups elevated the stories of 46 DV survivors, representing diverse socio-demographic identities, across the state of Illinois. We heard about their unique journeys in seeking help, barriers they experienced, and services they found helpful. We also heard about their recommendations for DV services and overall practices across formal systems of care. These findings highlight important steps forward for the ICADV, as well as for other systems of care.

The survivor-informed recommendations found in this report mirror many of the recommendations posited by researchers and practitioners, including providing comprehensive, trauma-informed care (Paphitis et al., 2022), the importance of empowering survivors to direct their help-seeking journey in finding safety (Cattaneo et al., 2020), systems-specific improvements (Klein & Klein, 2016; Kulkarni, 2018), and better collaboration and coordination across systems (O’Neal & Beckman, 2017). This report further details recommendations related to awareness and education, the utility of online resources and spaces, and the power of prevention. Together, this report highlights the urgent need to continue strengthening services, as well as the coordination of services, to better support survivors of DV across Illinois.

“It sounds like over the past few years you have done so much and to come from such a dark, dark place. It just sounds you’re doing amazing. I’m proud of you. I know we don’t know each other but listening to you the whole time just to hear all you’re doing it’s really inspiring.”

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SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4884. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Sullivan, C. M. (2018). Understanding how domestic violence support services promote survivor well-being: A conceptual model. Journal of Family Violence, 33, 123-131.

Sullivan, C. M., & Goodman, L. A. (2019). Advocacy with survivors of intimate partner violence: What is is, what it isn’t, and why it’s critically important. Violence against Women, 25(16), 2007-2023.

Sylaska, K. M., & Edwards, K. M. (2014). Disclosure of intimate partner violence to informal social support network members: A review of the literature. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 15, 3-21.

Thompson, A., & Tapp, S. (2022). Criminal Victimization, 2021. In Bureau of Justice Statistics, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. https:// bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/cv21.pdf#:~:text=%2833.8%20victimizations% 20per%201%2C000%20persons%29%20to%202021%20%287.5

Ullman, S. E. (1996). Do social reactions to sexual assault victims vary by support provider? Violence and Victims, 11(2), 143–157.

Vasquez, A. L., & Houston-Kolnik, J. (2017). Victim need report: Service providers’ perspectives on the needs of crime victims and service gaps. Chicago, IL: Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.

White, S. J., Sin, J., Sweeney, A., Salisbury, T., Wahlich, C., Montesinos Guevara, C. M., Gillard, S., Brett, E., Allwright, L., Iqbal, N., Khan, A., Perot, C., Marks, J., & Mantovani, N. (2024). Global prevalence and mental health outcomes of intimate partner violence among women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(1), 494-511.

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Youstin, T. J., & Siddique, J. A. (2018). Psychological Distress, Formal Help-Seeking

Four women laughing and talking while holding drinks at an outdoor seating area.

A group of five people in lavender and white outfits interact under beams of sunlight in a grand hall with arched windows.

Appendix

Appendix A

Appendix C—Screening Survey

These items will be used to assess for eligibility to be included in focus groups. Individuals who screen with one or more of the following answers (responses highlighted below) will be asked to participate.

Participants will be given information about the types of questions included on the screening questionnaire, including that we will be asking about domestic violence. We will include information about how these responses will be used to recruit for focus groups (with notes about confidentiality). Finally, we will provide resources at the end of this screening survey as well.

How old are you today?

Do you currently live in Illinois?

Thinking about where you live (or primarily reside), what is your 5digit zip code?

What county do you currently live in (or primarily reside)?

What is your sex according to your birth certificate?

How do you identify in terms of gender? (check all that apply)

*Transgender: gender identity or expression is not congruent with the traits culturally associated with the sex assigned at birth.

What is your sexual orientation? (check all that apply)

Write in:____(Must be 18 and older)

Yes

No

Write in

Write in

Male

Female

Nonbinary “X”

Other

Male

Female

Transgender* male

Transgender female

Gender non-conforming

Gender non-binary

Gender fluid

Another identity_

Heterosexual/straight

Lesbian

Gay

Bisexual

Queer

Questioning

Pansexual

Demisexual

Asexual

I prefer to selfdescribe________

How do you identify in terms of race and ethnicity? (check all that apply)

African

African American

Alaska Native

American Indian or Native American

Asian

Asian American

Asian Indian

Black

Caucasian or White

Chicano or Chicana

Chinese

Cuban

Filipino

Guamanian or Chamorro

Hispanic

Japanese

Korean

Latino or Latina or Latinx

Mexican

Mexican American

Middle Eastern

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander_________

Puerto Rican

Spanish

Vietnamese

Another race/ethnicity not listed here_________

Prefer to self-describe___________

Unknown

Do you have any of the following medical or health-related disabilities?

Where were you born?

Are you a U.S. citizen?

No

Hearing difficulty (deaf or having serious difficulty hearing).

Vision difficulty (blind or having serious difficulty seeing, even when wearing glasses).

Cognitive difficulty (Because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, having difficulty remembering, concentrating, or making decisions).

Ambulatory difficulty (Having serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs).

Self-care difficulty (Having difficulty bathing or dressing).

Independent living difficulty (Because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, having difficulty doing errands alone such as visiting a doctor’s office or shopping).

Other:____

Write in: _________________ (non-US-born individuals will be selected to participate)

Yes

No

What is your current immigration status?

(Note about how this information will not be shared with state, local, or immigration enforcement).

Have you ever been: (check all that apply)

Have you ever been: (check all that apply)

Naturalized Citizen

Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR; “green card” holder) – can include family-based visas, employment-based visas, and diversity-based visas)

Conditional Permanent Resident

Family-Sponsored Visa

VAWA Self-Petitioner

Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status

Refugee

Asylee

Non-immigrant Temporary Visa

Victim of Trafficking in Persons

Crime Victim or Witness

Temporary visa, such as a student visa

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Valid work authorization card

Undocumented

Other____

Arrested In juvenile detention In jail

Incarcerated in jail or prison On probation On parole On house arrest or electronic monitoring

Involved in the child welfare system

Been in foster care

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Grabbed, pushed, slapped, choked, punched, hit, kicked, burned, used a weapon, or threw something at you?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Pressured, physically forced, threatened, or blackmailed you to engage in sexual activity when you didn’t want to or were unable to give consent (e.g., you were drunk, passed out, etc.)?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Tried to keep you from doing what you wanted to do, tried to make you do something you didn’t want to do, threatened to hurt you or someone you loved unless you did what they wanted, or used other threats and controlling behaviors not listed here?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Spread rumors about you, spoke to you in a hostile or mean tone of voice, insulted you with put-downs, or said things to your friends or family to try and turn them against you?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Grabbed, pushed, slapped, choked, punched, hit, kicked, burned, used a weapon, or threw something at you?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Pressured, physically forced, threatened, or blackmailed you to engage in sexual activity when you didn’t want to or were unable to give consent (e.g., you were drunk, passed out, etc.)?

This never happened to me

This happened to me in the past year

This happened to me 1 to 5 years ago

This happened to me more than 5 years ago.

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Tried to keep you from doing what you wanted to do, tried to make you do something you didn’t want to do, threatened to hurt you or someone you loved unless you did what they wanted, or used other threats and controlling behaviors not listed here?

Did you ever have a partner or partners who: Spread rumors about you, spoke to you in a hostile or mean tone of voice, insulted you with put-downs, or said things to your friends or family to try and turn them against you?

This never happened to me

This happened to me in the past year

This happened to me 1 to 5 years ago

This happened to me more than 5 years ago.

Following this act(s) of violence, did you… (check all that apply):

Seek assistance at a Domestic Violence Agency

Seek Housing or Shelter through a Domestic Violence Agency

Attend a Domestic Violence Support Group

Call or text a Domestic Violence hotline or helpline

Report domestic violence to the police or law enforcement

Obtain an order of protection or restraining order

Seek medical care (e.g., go to Emergency Room, urgent care, hospital, physician)

Seek social services (e.g., go to Dept. of Human Services, Benefits office)

Seek support at a community-based organization or nonprofit

Seek counseling services or therapy

Tell a close friend, family member, or intimate partner about the experience

Other:________

None of the above

I don’t remember

Appendix D—Focus Group Protocol

Introduction: “Thank you for coming to talk with us today to talk about your experiences accessing, utilizing, or attempting to access domestic violence services in the state of Illinois. My name is [facilitator name] and I will be leading the discussion today. I am a [role] at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and we are partnering with the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence to better understand services and supports related to domestic violence in Illinois. My role is to ask you questions and keep the conversating moving. In just a minute I’ll ask you to introduce yourself, but first I’d like to go over a few things with you.”

“Today’s focus group will last approximately 75 minutes. At the end of the focus group, we will be asking you to complete a short questionnaire with brief items about your experiences with domestic violence and services. This questionnaire will take about 15 minutes to complete.”

Note about Informed Consent

The Informed Consent document will be administered to participants electronically prior to the focus group meeting. Participants will only receive location information/ Zoom link to join the focus group after they have completed the informed consent. Signed forms will be stored electronically.

Notetaker, Chat, and Recording

“We will be writing a report from these sessions, but we don’t use anyone’s names in the reports. Since I need to write a report, I have a person helping me with notes named [notetaker name].”

For online:

“For the purposes of this focus group, the chat feature will be disabled after we do introductions to center attention on the conversation happening within the larger group. However, you can still direct message either of the hosts if a question or concern emerges during the focus group. We will also be sharing the questions asked with you all in the chat box if that makes it easier to follow along.” “I will also audio record our talks because I want to make sure I don’t miss anything. I will start the recoding now.” (Turn on recorder; Audio will be recorded digitally via the Zoom platform.)

Purpose & Procedure

“I want to begin by thanking you for taking time out of your schedule to talk with me today. What we are doing today is a focus group. It is a small group discussion to find out your thoughts and perceptions. For most of our time, we will talk as a group about your experiences accessing, utilizing, or attempting to access domestic violence services in the state of Illinois. We will also discuss your suggestions for making services more accessible, available, and equitable. I am interested in hearing all of your perceptions, comments, and suggestions.”

Ground Rules

“Once we get started, I will ask you some questions. To make sure that everyone gets the chance to participate in the discussion and feels comfortable, please follow these ground rules.

Listen carefully to the questions and to what everyone else has to say. Everyone’s ideas are important. I will make sure everyone has the chance to speak. Sometimes I will ask each of you a question and sometimes just a few people may respond. But it is important that everyone participate because each of your ideas is important.

Note that you may have different views than fellow participants. We ask that you respect each other’s unique standpoints. We want to hear as many opinions and views as we can today.

Let one person speak at a time. Remember that the discussion is being recorded. During the discussion, you do not have to wait for me to call on you, but please do speak one at a time, so we can keep track of the comments. We have a lot of things to talk about so sometimes I may change the subject or move ahead. Just stop me if you want to add anything.

Turn off cell phones, desktop notifications, and other technology devices that could cause distractions please. If you absolutely need to take a call, please quietly leave the room to take the call/mute yourself and turn off your video.”

Payment:

“After this focus group and survey, you will be paid $40.”

Confidentiality:

“You are not required to answer any of the questions, and your answers will be kept confidential by our research team, but unfortunately, we cannot control what other participants share once the focus group is over and everybody has left.”

Disclaimer/Trigger Warning:

“We will be talking about experiences related to domestic violence. Talking and hearing about domestic violence services may impact your wellbeing. If at any point you are uncomfortable with the questions, remember you do not have to answer any questions you do not wish to answer. Additionally, if you need to step out of the room/turn off your video, please feel free to do so. If you need to talk to someone after the focus group, we can connect you with someone who can assist you. We will also provide a list of resources and supports after this focus group.”

Warm-up/Icebreaker

In person:

“Now that you’ve gotten to know a little more about why we are here and how things will go, I’d like you to introduce yourselves. To help us get to know each other, please tell us your first name only or a nickname that you would like to use today, your pronouns, and (optional: add neutral question as icebreaker).”

Online:

“Now that you’ve gotten to know a little more about why we are here and how things will go, I’d like you to introduce yourselves and share your pronouns. As you have entered this session, [the notetaker] was updating your names to only include your first names. If you would prefer a nickname instead, please message the team and we will update this.”

Focus Group Questions

1. Who do survivors choose to seek help from in terms of formal response systems? For example, do they reach out to social services, community-based organizations, medical settings, police or law enforcement, etc.?

Follow-up: How do they go about seeking these formal supports?

Probe: What may prevent survivors from reaching out for formal help? Do you feel that there are certain attitudes or stigma towards seeking help for domestic violence?

2. When you were experiencing violence/abuse, what did you need the most? What did you do to stay safe?

3. You may have reached out for services or supports with a DV agency. How did you find out about the services you received?

Follow-up: Were there any barriers in trying to access these services or supports? Follow-up: Were there specific programs, supports, or services that you found particularly helpful or supportive?

4. When you were seeking help, did you receive the help you needed?

Follow-up: Was the response you received from formal response systems what you were looking for? What went well? What didn’t go well?

Follow-up: Did you feel your needs changed over time?

5. Some people say that having choices is important when you are thinking about seeking help. Relatedly, a sense of control has been identified as an important factor in seeking help. How important would you say feelings of choice and control are when seeking help?

Follow-up: Are there ways services at domestic violence agencies could improve in relation to empowering survivors?

6. How might aspects of your identity (race or cultural background and values; gender identity; sexual orientation; having a disability; being an immigrant) have affected the services you received?

Probe: Have you encountered unique challenges or discrimination when accessing DV services? How did this affect your experience?

Probe: Have you received appropriate accommodation or assistance from service providers to address any disability-related needs as you were accessing and using services?

Probe: Have you encountered any cultural or language-related barriers when seeking services?

Follow-up: Have you found any services or supports to be particularly valuable in your journey as a survivor of domestic violence? Have you found specialized support services or organizations that were particularly helpful for people of color/individuals with disabilities/individuals within the LGBTQ+ community/etc.?

7. Across these experiences, were issues related to bias, discrimination, access, or accommodation addressed or resolved?

8. How could domestic violence services be more inclusive? How can they provide more inclusive and affirming services?

Probe: What advice would you share with your service providers to improve assistance to survivors of domestic violence?

9. What role do you think online resources and support can play in addressing domestic violence?

10. What improvements would you suggest in other settings (with law enforcement, with medical providers, etc.) when providing services to domestic violence survivors?

Probe: What improvements could be made across systems of care? How do you feel about coordination between service providers? How can providers outside of DV agencies be more sensitive and responsive to the needs of DV survivors?

11. Across your experiences seeking help from formal supports, were you comfortable disclosing your experiences with domestic violence? What was most helpful in dealing with the harm caused by your partner?

12. Final advice/recommendations

Conclusion

“Now that we have covered all the questions, {the notetaker} is going to summarize the main points that were discussed. This summary is to make sure that we understand everything that has been said. Please let us know if there is an important point that was left out, or if there is something that was misunderstood.”

{Notetaker reads summary: <2 mins}

“Thank you all for sharing your perspectives. I appreciate your willingness to discuss these topics with us. I have learned a lot from you, and I know what you have said will help us better understand this important issue and inform services in Illinois related to domestic violence.”

Survey

“Now we would like you to take a moment to fill out a survey questionnaire that will ask some demographic information, as well as some items on your experiences with domestic violence, mental health, and other experiences. You can access the questionnaire via the link (here). The survey should take approximately 15 minutes.” (Survey will be distributed digitally through a link pasted in the chat for online participants).

We have resources available/We will share resources in the chat. We will stick around for a few moments in case anyone has any questions or would like to chat.”

(Turn off the recording; provide resource list and make it clear the contact information for participants if they have questions).

Appendix E—Follow-up Survey

Adversity (ACEs)

This first section asks you about things that may have happened to you when you were a child or teenager (ages 0-17). Please remember that your answers will be kept confidential. Also, please remember that you can skip any questions that you do not wish to answer, and you can stop participation at any time.

Have you ever experienced the following during your first 18 years of life?

Did a parent or other adult living in your home…

Swear at you, insult you, put you down, or humiliate you? Or Act in a way that made you afraid that you might be physically hurt?

Did a parent or other adult living in your home… Push, grab, slap, or throw something at you?

Did a parent or person at least 5 years older than you ever… Touch or fondle you or have you touch their body in a sexual way? Or Try to or actually have oral, anal, or vaginal sex with you?

Did you often or very often feel that… No one in your family loved you or thought you were important or special? Or Your family didn’t look out for each other, feel close to each other, or support each other?

Did you often or very often feel that… You didn’t have enough to eat, had to wear dirty clothes, and had no one to protect you? Or Your parents were too drunk or high to take care of you or take you to the doctor if you needed it?

Were your parents separated or divorced?

Was one of your parents or caregivers:

Often or very often pushed, grabbed, slapped, or had something thrown at them? Or Sometimes, often, or very often kicked, bitten, hit with a fist, or hit with something hard? Or Ever repeatedly hit at least a few minutes or threatened with a gun or knife?

Did you live with anyone who had a drinking problem or was an alcoholic? Or Did you live with anyone who used illegal drugs or abused prescription medications?

Did you live with anyone who had depression and/or another mental health disorder?

Or Did you live with anyone who had suicidal thoughts/ attempted suicide? Did you live with anyone who served time or was sentenced to serve time in a prison, jail, or other correctional facility? Or Did you ever live with someone who was serving a probation or parole sentence?

Did you see or hear someone being beaten up, stabbed, or shot in your community?

Yes

No

Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Sleep, and Trauma Symptoms), and Substance

Use

In the past 7 days, I felt worthless. I felt helpless. I felt depressed. I felt hopeless. Always Often Sometimes Rarely Never

In the past 7 days, I felt fearful.

I found it hard to focus on anything other than my anxiety. My worries overwhelmed me. I felt uneasy. Always Often Sometimes Rarely Never

Have you spent more time drinking or using than you intended to?

Have you ever neglected some of your usual responsibilities because of using alcohol or drugs?

Have you felt you wanted or needed to cut down on your drinking or drug use in the last year?

Has your family, a friend, or anyone else ever told you they objected to your alcohol or drug use?

Have you found yourself thinking a lot about drinking or using?

Have you ever used alcohol or drugs to relieve emotional discomfort, such as sadness, anger, or boredom? Yes No

Resilience

I tend to bounce back quickly after hard times. I have a hard time making it through stressful events.

It does not take me long to recover from a stressful event.

It’s hard for me to snap back when something bad happens.

I usually come through difficult times with little troubles.

I tend to take a long time to get over set-backs in my life.

Strongly agree Agree Disagree

Strongly disagree

Discrimination & Social Support

This next section asks you about your neighborhood and support within relationships with family, friends, and partners.

In your day-to-day life how often have any of the following things happened to you?

You are treated with less courtesy or respect than other people. You receive poorer service than other people at restaurants or stores.

People act as if they think you are not smart.

People act as if they are afraid of you.

You are threatened or harassed.

Follow-up: (Asked only of those answering “A few times a year” or more frequently to at least one question.):

What do you think is the main reason for these experiences? (check all that apply):

Your Ancestry or National Origins

Your Gender Identity or Expression

Your Race

Your Age

Your Religion

Your Height

Your Weight

Some other Aspect of Your Physical Appearance

Your Sexual Orientation

Your Education or Income Level

A physical disability

Your shade of skin color

Your tribe

Other: _____

Please indicate to what extent each statement describes your current relationships:

There are people I can depend on to help me if I really need it.

There is no one I can turn to for guidance in times of stress.

If something went wrong, no one would come to my assistance.

There is someone I could talk to about important decisions in my life. There is a trustworthy person I could turn to for advice if I were having problems.

There is no one I can depend on for aid if I really need it.

There is no one I feel comfortable talking about problems with.

There are people I can count on in an emergency.

Think about your interactions with others online (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, email, Zoom, Twitch, YouTube, email, etc.). Rate your level of agreement for each statement.

People show that they care about me online.

Online, people make me feel like I belong.

Online, people would tell me where to find help if I needed it.

Never

Less than once a year

A few times a year

A few times a month

At least once a week

Almost every day

Strongly agree

Agree

Neither agree nor disagree

Disagree

Strongly disagree

Strongly agree

Agree

Neither agree nor disagree

Disagree

Strongly disagree

General Life/Household Questions

Reminder: you can skip any questions that you do not wish to answer, and you can stop participation at any time.

How would you describe your current living situation/housing?

Who else lives in your household?

(check all that apply and specify the number of people) – drop down menus

{“Household” here means everyone living together and pooling resources to pay for mortgage/ rent, groceries, etc.}

Do you currently receive any of the following forms of assistance?

(check all that apply)

Own house, townhouse, apartment, or condo

Rent house, townhouse, apartment, or condo

Live in house, townhouse, apartment, or condo owned or rented by someone else

Dormitory or student housing

Assisted living facility

Short-term or long-term shelter

Group home

Hotel

Staying temporarily with friends or a relative

Please self-describe if none of these options match your current living or housing situation: ____

I live alone

Spouse or partner

Friend or roommate

Parent or caregiver

Biological child or children

Stepchild or children

Adopted child or children

Foster child or children

Grandchild or grandchildren

Sibling(s) or stepsibling(s)

Grandparent(s)

Another family member

Other

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)

Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program

Lifeline

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Medicaid

Public Housing (e.g., Section 8 housing, federally subsidized housing)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; also known as EBT, Link or Quest card)

Supplemental Social Security

Social Security Disability

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)

Unemployment Benefits

I receive financial assistance, but I don’t what it’s called

Another form of assistance:____

What is your current employment status? (check all that apply)

What is your approximate gross household income for the last 12 months.

{“Household” here means everyone living together and pooling resources to pay for mortgage/ rent, groceries, etc.

Gross household income means before taxes are taken out. Consider all sources of income, including work earnings, welfare cash assistance, child support, etc.}

What is your primary form of transportation (e.g., to get to work, school, run errands, etc.)?

(check all that apply)

Do you have any Internet access in your home or primary place of residence?

In the last three months, due to a lack of money or other resources, have you or another adult in your household (check all that apply):

Employed full-time (at least 35 hours or more per week)

Employed part-time

Full-time student

Part-time student

Currently looking for employment

Not employed and not looking for work

On disability and cannot work

Home-maker

Retired

Laid off

Temporary employment

Other:___

I drive my own car

I have friends/family who drive me

I take a train

I take a bus

I walk

I ride my bike

I use ride-sharing options (Uber, Lyft, etc.)

Other______

Yes

No

Worried you might run out of food

Were unable to eat healthy, balanced, and nutritious food

Ate only a few kinds of foods

Skipped breakfast, lunch, or dinner

Ate less than you thought you should have

Ran out of food

Were hungry but did not eat

Went without eating for a whole day

None of the above

How would you describe your religious beliefs/spirituality? (check all that apply)

Agnostic

Atheist

Baha’i

Baptist

Buddhist

Catholic

Christian

Hindu

Islam

Jehovah’s Witness

Jewish

Lutheran

Methodist

Mormon

Muslim

Protestant

Another: ____________

I don’t know

Prefer to self-describe: ___________

What is your current relationship status?

What is the highest level of education that you completed?

Not currently in a relationship, or single

Single (divorced or separated)

Married

In a relationship

Widowed

Open relationship

Prefer to self-describe: ___

Some elementary or grade school

Graduated Eighth grade

Some high school

Graduated high school / GED

Vocational or Technical School Certificate

Some college

Associate Degree

Graduated college (e.g., Bachelor’s Degree)

Some graduate school

Graduate degree (e.g., Master’s Degree or higher)

I’m not sure

Other:____

Appendix F—Resources Provided

Please remember that no one is tracking your responses to these questions. Should you wish to speak to someone about your experiences, you can contact:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799‐7233

• The National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656‐HOPE (4673)

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273‐TALK (8255)

• Support, information, and referrals for mental illness in Illinois 1-800-950‐NAMI (6264)

• the Illinois Call4Calm Text Line for stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic, text TALK to 552020 for English and HABLAR for Spanish; Message and Data rates may apply

• The CARES Line (24 hour) if you child is a risk to themselves or others, having a mental health crisis, or you would like referral to services, call 1-800-345-9049

• The Illinois helpline for Opioids and other substances, call 1-833-2FINDHELP to speak with a trained professional for support or advice

• The Crisis text line, to serve anyone in any time of crisis, 24-hours a day. Text HELLO to 741741. Trained crisis counselors will respond and help you.

• Other resources can be found through the Illinois Department of Human Services: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=123539

Below is additional information on resources, contact information, and websites. We are committed to protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of our research participants. If taking this survey led to any feelings of discomfort, or you wish to speak to someone about these experiences, we encourage you to reach out to these supports:

Victim Needs Compensation Fund: The Crime Victim Compensation Act was established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1973 with the primary goal of helping to reduce the financial burden imposed on victims of violent crime and their families. The Illinois Crime Victim Compensation Program can provide eligible victims and their families with up to $27,000 in financial assistance for expenses accrued as a result of a violent crime. https://ag.state.il.us/victims/cvc.html#:~:text=The%20Illinois%20Crime% 20Victim%20Compensation,result%20of%20a%20violent%20crime.

Suicide Hotlines

National-

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (http://www.afsp.org/): Available 24 hours 7 days a week. Information on suicide prevention and links to a variety of resources including telephone suicide prevention, telephone crisis support, and text crisis support services. 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

• Crisis Text Line: Available 24 hours 7 days a week. Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States to connect with a crisis counselor. Free services. Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment.

Illinois State-

• CARES Line: Crisis and Referral Entry Services available 24 hours 7 days a week designed to assist individuals in Illinois who are a risk to themselves or others due to a mental health crisis. 1-800-345-9049

Illinois State Mental Health Services

In Crisis/ Emergency CALL: 911 OR GO TO: Emergency Room at Local Hospital CONTACT: Crisis/Emergency Mental Health Provider OR Living Room Program

Non-Emergency

Contact Non-Crisis Mental Health Provider

Locate a Mental Health 'Provider' near you: OFFICE LOCATOR TTY: 312-814-5050

State Referral Help Lines

Illinois 211: 2-1-1 is a free referral and information helpline that connects people to a wide range of health and human services, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To contact 2-1-1 in any state, including Illinois, simply dial the numbers 2-1-1 from any phone.

Safe2Help: a program for students to report school safety issues in a confidential environment.

Domestic Violence (DV)

National Resource Center on Domestic Violence TTY Hotline

800–537–2238 x 5

800–553–2508

Domestic Violence Helpline (confidential, multilingual 24- hour): Toll free number:

1-877-TO END DV or 1-877-863-6338 (Voice) or 1-877-863-6339 (TTY).

You will be helped to locate tailored domestic violence programs and services throughout Illinois state. Services include: https://bit.ly/3aneuo4

A 24-hour crisis hotline that provides:

• Support

• Information

• Referral

• Counseling

• Safety planning

• Legal advocacy

• Children's services

• Temporary food and housing

• Teaching people about domestic violence and problems that come with domestic violence

• Reaching out to people who are victims of domestic violence

• Teaching people domestic violence is NOT OK

Sexual Assault (Rape, sexual harassment, sexual coercion, stalking, human trafficking (sexual)

National Sexual Assault

Toll free and confidential and works 24/7

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)

800–656–HOPE (800–656–4673)

Assistance for victims of violent crimes: Office of the Illinois secretary of state

800-252-8980 (toll free in Illinois)

217-785-3000 (outside Illinois)

Court of Claims Assistance for Victims of Violent Crime

217-782-7101

Please note: Victim must report the crime within 72 hours to law enforcement or seven days for sexual violence, unless unable to do so. You must also cooperate with law enforcement.

Safe Phone Helpline (sexual assault support for the DoD community)

www.safehelpline.org

Toll free number: 877–995–5247

National Helpline for Men Who Were Sexually Abused or Assaulted

Telephone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

https://1in6.org/helpline

National Sexual Assault Online Hotline (Español)

https://hotline.rainn.org/online

https://hotline.rainn.org/es

National Runaway Safe line Chat www.1800runaway.org

CALL 1-800-RUNAWAY

Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault

phone: 217-753-4117 www.icasa.org

Illinois State Sexual Assault Counseling and Information Service (SACIS)

SERVICES: Crisis and on-going services, including counseling services, to victims of sexual violence (sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual harassment and/or stalking) and victims’ families/significant. others Services include individual and group counseling, medical and criminal justice advocacy, information and referral, institutional advocacy, public education and professional training. www.sacis.org

PHONE: 217-348-5033 or 888-345-2846

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