Perceptions and Understanding of Family Violence Among Japanese Canadians

Abstract

This study explores and describes how Japanese Canadian participants in Edmonton and Calgary perceive and understand family violence. A qualitative descriptive methodology was utilized as the research method, and data was collected from ten Japanese Canadians through individual and focus group formats. Findings indicate that participants appeared to have a bounded view toward family violence. A bounded understanding of family violence included actions that were direct, intense, visible, and frequent. Participants indicated that Japanese culture influences participants’ perceptive on family violence. Language coveys culture and may limit perceptions; a strong patriarchal value places males at risk to abuse wives and children. This study also examines the barriers to reporting incidence of family violence and to access services. This study presents implications and direction for social work practice with Japanese heritage group and may also be applicable to wider social work practice inter-culturally.