Social support among women in methadone treatment who experience partner violence - Isolation and male controlling behavior

This study explores types, availability, use, and satisfaction of support among women in methadone treatment who reported partner violence. It also examines the role of the woman's intimate partner in isolating her from her social network. A total of 68 women participated in 1 of 14 two-hour focus groups. The findings suggest that male dominance and control function to isolate and prevent women from accessing support needed to cope with partner violence. The participants not only felt that they had few people to turn to for support but also expressed dissatisfaction with the support that they received.