Cultural Perspectives on Staying In and Leaving Abusive RelationshipsAfrican American and Jamaican American Women’s Narratives

This study sought to understand the cultural beliefs and values associated with abused US Black women’s decisions to stay with or leave abusive partners. In-depth interviews were conducted with twenty-one African American and Jamaican American women. Qualitative analyses revealed seven core themes in the women’s abuse related beliefs. The belief in male leadership, collectivity and spiritual problem solving were among the core cultural beliefs expressed by participants. Cultural differences in the African American and Jamaican IPV related beliefs were also noted. The results suggest that cultural values and beliefs play a significant role in abused Black women’s decision making