Hidden voices: Children’s and young people’s experiences of living with and/or being exposed to intimate abuse and family violence in CALD communities in WA

Background

"Hidden voices" is a research project that aims to document the first-hand experiences of children and young people living with and/or exposed to domestic and family violence (DFV) in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Western Australia. The research project aims to address some of the gaps in existing research on the impacts of DFV on children and young people from CALD backgrounds and the implications for policy and service delivery.

Aim

The project’s primary objectives are 1) to gather evidence on the nature and prevalence of CALD children's and young people’s exposure to DFV and the impacts of the exposure; 2) to address some of the gaps in existing research on the intersections of disadvantage and inequalities experienced by CALD young people impacted by DFV; 3) to identify the existing barriers facing CALD young people and their families in accessing support services; and 4) to identify how service providers, policymakers, educators and health professionals can better respond to the specific needs of young people in culturally safe ways.

Methods

This research project uses a participatory mixed methods approach with three stages:
1. comprehensive literature review of relevant research and published reports on the impacts of CALD children and young people living with and/or exposed to DFV
2. quantitative and qualitative data collection: firstly, an online survey will be conducted with CALD young people across Western Australia. Secondly, in-depth qualitative interviews will be conducted with 20 to 25 CALD young people (aged 9 to 25 years) who have been exposed to DFV
3. detailed thematic analysis of research data using a feminist narrative inquiry approach informed by the framework of intersectionality.

Significance

Research shows that CALD communities experience higher rates of DFV and more barriers to reporting and accessing support services than non-CALD communities. Children and young people from CALD communities are particularly vulnerable to the exposure to DFV due to intersecting factors including collectivist familial orientations, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, and increased risks of homelessness and poverty due to migration status and racism. This research project aims to address a research gap by providing new evidence on the nature and prevalence of CALD young people’s exposure to DFV, the impacts on their lives, and how policies and service providers can better respond to and support them.

Project start date

January 2022

Expected completion date

July 2025