Family and domestic violence in culturally and linguistically diverse Australians: a stakeholders’ perspective

Khawaja, N.G, Hebbani, A and Vitale, A (2025) 'Family and domestic violence in culturally and linguistically diverse Australians: a stakeholders’ perspective.' Australian Journal of Social Issues. doi: 10.1002/ajs4.70091

Text 17475.pdf - Accepted Version Restricted to Repository staff only until 25 December 2027.

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the perspectives of stakeholders working with victims of family and domestic violence (FDV) from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Australia. Sixteen stakeholders participated in focus groups to share their insights on sociocultural factors contributing to FDV, CALD women's understanding of abusive behaviours and barriers that prevent these women from reporting and seeking help for coercive practices. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed that stakeholders perceived cultural beliefs, expectations and practices to significantly influence FDV in CALD communities. According to them, contributing factors included misinterpretations of patriarchy and religion, limited understanding of FDV as coercive control, cultural expectations, migration-related challenges and acculturative stress. Stakeholders also emphasised that fear, cultural norms, limited interpersonal support and a dearth of culturally responsive services hinder CALD women from recognising, reporting and addressing FDV. These findings have important implications for informing policy and the development of culturally responsive programmes aimed at improving the well-being and safety of women from CALD backgrounds living in Western societies.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Australia, culture, domestic violence, culturally and linguistically diverse
Divisions:	School of Sciences
Date Deposited:	18 Dec 2025 12:48
Last Modified:	08 Jan 2026 11:51
ISSN:	0157-6321
URN:	https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/17475

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