Abuse of women with disabilities - An ecological model and review

Women with disabilities are at increased risk for emotional, physical, anti sexual abuse. They are also at risk for experiencing disability-related abuse from multiple sources. This problem is compounded by the social context of disability, including pervasive discrimination and stereotyping by society This article highlights the problem of abuse of women with disabilities and examines the state oft he science through it review of literature. An ecological model is presented that examines relevant individual, environmental, and cultural factors. The authors hope that this article will stimulate awareness of this problem and future research in this important arena.