Intimate partner violence against immigrant women with temporary residence permit : -Interviews with professionals

Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the situation of immigrant women with temporary residence permit who face intimate partner violence and are living in Mid-Sweden. The study had a qualitative approach and four professionals with experience in meeting this group were interviewed using semi-structured questions. The sample consisted of respondents from social services, a women’s shelter, a NGO and a law firm. Findings show that due to controlling behavior by their partners the women are often isolated from society. Economical violence is explained as frequently occurring. Furthermore, the findings show that having a temporary residence permit makes it difficult to leave the abusive relationship, since it is connected to the risk of deportation. According to the respondents the women experience fear and worries related to their legal status. Moreover, the help available for them include supporting conversations, protected living and legal guidance. The findings indicate that for the women’s situation to be improved they need to gain information on their rights.