PPSA's peer education approach helps individuals understand healthy relationships so that they are equipped to assess their own. Also raised was the need to make sure that your organization can refer a victim to further counseling and a safe place to stay. An advocacy group, Physicians for Social Responsibility, has domestic violence safety plans printed on wallet-sized cards to give out at clinics and doctor's offices. The ethnic and cultural factors that affect the screening and treatment of victims of violence were highlighted at the conference. In many Asian communities, for example, there is reluctance to even discuss the problem.
Confidentiality is a profound concern.
Professor Sara Torres of the University of Maryland School of Nursing, spoke about her recent study of cultural norms and acculturation in various Latin American ethnic groups. In certain groups, the more acculturated the female partner, the higher the incidence of violence during pregnancy. Other Latina populations, however, had a very low incidence of violence. Ignoring cultural differences and treating all victims alike can cause them to feel isolated, misunderstood, and unwelcome in health centers. Health care providers can build on their outreach programs in diverse communities and train community members to draw out disclosure in a safe and much needed haven.