Why Immigrants Face Increased Levels of Domestic Violence Risk

Abstract

To understand why domestic violence among immigrant populations in Western cultures occurs at a higher prevalence rate, a literature review was conducted to identify unique challenges that increase vulnerability to abuse. Unique challenges were defined as risks in addition to common domestic violence risk factors such as low income, high stress, inadequate support systems, and living in crime-ridden communities. This literature review of 13 peer-reviewed articles (based on interviews, focus groups, literature reviews, client records, and protection orders) written between 2018 and 2024 on immigrants (including refugees) in Western countries revealed three themes: 1) immigrants face barriers to accessing help, 2) patriarchal beliefs facilitate domestic violence, and 3) the Western system for supporting survivors of domestic violence can appear culturally insensitive. Awareness of challenges enhances cultural humility and assists social workers in meeting the needs of domestic violence survivors from diverse cultures. Further research on diverse immigrant populations could enhance understanding and identify strategies to reduce the gap between Western support and collective cultural needs.