| Many female victims of domestic violence seek help through contacting the police or by seeking mental health counseling, but little research has examined the attitudes and perceptions of police and mental health professionals toward these victims, particularly in rural versus suburban settings. The consequences of being a domestic violence victim may include psychological, emotional, physical, and mental anguish. This social concern likely affects nearly every individual directly or indirectly at some point during their lifetime. Using functionalism theory, along with feminist, patriarchal, and learned helplessness theories to describe why domestic violence victims may remain in these relationships, the present study employed a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes and perceptions of county police officers and mental health professionals in their work with female domestic violence victims. These professionals were voluntarily interviewed until saturation occurred. Research questions sought to further explore professionals' attitudes and perceptions of this phenomenon, response to victims, and differences in how victims are treated based upon geographical setting. Data were analyzed and interpreted by describing the personal and professional experiences of the participants through steps outlined by Moustakas. A computer software program, Qualrus, was utilized to identify themes. Results of the study found no differences in how victims in both counties were treated. However, if law enforcement and mental health professionals share their knowledge of domestic abuse and how best to aid the victims, it would result in increased domestic violence reporting. |
