Indigenous Mothering in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence in Rural, Remote, and Northern Places: A Secondary Analysis of the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention for Vulnerable Populations (CDHPIVP) Phase 3 Database

PurposeThe bond between mother and child is biological, genetic, spiritual, and unique. In times of intimate partner violence (IPV), mothering continues with efforts to protect and care for their children. The purpose of this project is to understand Indigenous mothering within the contexts of Indigenous identities, IPV, and rural, remote, and northern (RRN) places.MethodA secondary analysis of the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention for Vulnerable Populations Phase 3 Database revealed 16 cases identified as Indigenous mothers residing in RRN places. Grounded theory analyses explicated a preliminary theory of 'Colonial Pathways In, Indigenous Pathways Through' the social process of Indigenous mothering through IPV experiences in RRN places.ResultsIndigenous mothering through IPV in RRN places is a responsive and embodied experience within a storied space, occurring through three pathways: Colonial pathways' into IPV; survival pathways during IPV; and recovery of cultural identity as providing an escape from IPV, expressed through themes of 1. comparative mothering, 2. continuous hypervigilance, protective nurturance, pursuit of safety, and 3. cultural recovery. Indigenous mothers demonstrates resilience in striving for safety while caring for their children within an IPV context.ConclusionsIndigenous mothering occurs even in the worst of times, such as during IPV. 'Colonial Pathways In, Indigenous Pathways Through' theory increases our understanding of Indigenous mothering in RRN places. Of significance is the occurrence of traumatic brain injury, pointing to the need for recognition that it is occurring and screening and treatment is required. Most of all, the study highlights the resilience, resistance, and resourcefulness of Indigenous mothers striving to keep themselves and their children safe.

Automated summary

The purpose of this project is to understand Indigenous mothering in the context of Indigenous identities, IPV, and rural, remote, and northern places. Through a secondary analysis of 16 cases, a preliminary theory called 'Colonial Pathways In, Indigenous Pathways Through' was developed to explore Indigenous mothering during IPV. The study found that Indigenous mothers demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness in striving for their children's safety within an IPV context.