ABSTRACT
CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INTERVENTION IN FAITH COMMUNITIES: A REVIEW OF TRAUMA-INFORMED, BIBLICALLY INTEGRATED THERAPEUTIC MODELS
Journal: Social Values and Society (SVS)
Author: Emmanuel Uche Igwe, Amina Catherine Peter-Anyebe, and Agama Omachi
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited
DOI: 10.26480/svs.01.2025.34.42
This review explores trauma-informed and culturally sensitive intervention strategies for addressing domestic violence within faith-based communities. It examines the intersection of clinical practices such as safety planning, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychoeducation with spiritual approaches, including pastoral care, scripture-based counseling, and inner healing ministries. The study highlights the unique challenges faced by survivors and perpetrators in religious settings, where theological beliefs, cultural norms, and community dynamics often influence responses to abuse. Emphasis is placed on the role of clergy, lay counselors, and faith leaders as pivotal agents of support, healing, and behavioral transformation. By analyzing integrative frameworks that blend psychological science with spiritual disciplines, the paper outlines strategies for enhancing therapeutic alliance, trust, and long-term recovery. It aims to inform practitioners, ministries, and faith-based organizations on how to develop compassionate, effective, and contextually relevant support systems. The findings advocate for collaborative care models that respect both mental health principles and religious convictions, promoting holistic healing within spiritually grounded communities.

