Strategies of survival: Coping, characteristics of resiliency, and perceived impact of abuse in resilient Black female survivors of sexual trauma.
Item
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Title
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Strategies of survival: Coping, characteristics of resiliency, and perceived impact of abuse in resilient Black female survivors of sexual trauma.
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Identifier
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AAI3115290
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identifier
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3115290
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Creator
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Singleton, Karen Walker.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Anderson J. Franklin
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Date
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2004
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Psychology, Clinical
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Abstract
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This qualitative study investigated the experiences of resilient Black female survivors of sexual trauma. The purpose of the study was to identify: (1) the strategies resilient Black female sexual trauma survivors use to cope with the experience of trauma; (2) the characteristics that contribute to their resiliency; and (3) the ways in which these women are impacted (intrapsychically, physically, spiritually, and intellectually) by sexual trauma. In-depth analysis of interviews with 12 participants was guided by the grounded theory method. The analysis yielded four selective codes, 11 axial codes, and 43 open codes. Key themes included use of spirituality as a major coping strategy, particularly the combined use of non-traditional spiritual practices (e.g., meditation, yoga) with more traditional spiritual practice (e.g., prayer, listening to gospel music). Participants also coped by developing creative strategies to construct meaning out of their abusive experiences (e.g., filmmaking, dance, writing). Common characteristics of resiliency included the belief in a divine order (e.g., everything happens for a reason), internal locus of control, and the presence of strong female role models. In addition to the common sequelae often cited in the research on sexual trauma (e.g. guilt, shame, difficulties with trust), participants reported an initial reluctance to disclose the abuse within their Black communities, as well as feelings of stigma and isolation within and outside of Black communities. A theoretical model for describing the impact of sexual trauma on Black women is presented. Implications for clinical and counseling psychology research and practice are addressed, as well as guidelines for developing cultural competency for work with this population.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
