Twentieth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

An examination of the service-related outcomes of contacts from victims, service provider perspectives, the responsibility of the community to take proactive measures on the issue of violence in the family and Muslimat Al Nisaa Domestic Violence Shelter best practices are discussed. In times of crisis, domestic violence hotlines and service providers are often the first to be contacted by an abused woman or a concerned family member or friend. Unfortunately, perceptions differ widely as to what constitutes appropriate care for Muslim women. In this study, we compare and contrast generic vs culturally competent approaches with recommendations for professionals to become familiar with the characteristics, causes, and outcomes of domestic violence in the Muslim community. We aim to be able to provide culturally competent services for Muslim women victims of domestic violence; recognizing and responding to this problem by treating domestic violence for what it is – a crime. Cultural competence means to really listen to the client, to find out and learn about their beliefs and not superimpose one’s own. To provide culturally appropriate care we need to know and to understand culturally influenced behaviors. We consider discrepancies through offering a culturally competent, theologically inclusive care methodology which takes into consideration the special needs of victims of domestic violence whom are also Muslim women in America. We draw on Paulo Freire’s ‘Pedagogy For Social Justice’ use of his “see-judge-act” student-centered methods leading to critical consciousness.