Peer-reviewed article

Healing and resilience among Native American and rural women survivors of domestic violence: The Takini/Survivor project.

Hunt K, Diamond-Welch B, Edwards KM, Pierskalla C, Swallow A et al. · 12 Mar 2026

Abstract

Objective The Takini/Survivor project examined factors promoting healing and resilience among women survivors of domestic violence in primarily South Dakota, with particular attention to American Indian/Native American (Native hereinafter) and rural experiences through the resilience portfolio model. Method Using a phenomenological design, this study explored the narratives of 31 Native women using semistructured qualitative interviews. When appropriate, the study also delineated between narratives of Native rural (10) and nonrural women (21). Results Participants described "poly-strengths" sequences in which environmental strengths (such as housing and transportation) enabled them to draw on their other strengths across resilience portfolio model domains. Rural participants emphasized how geographic isolation, limited mobility, and safety concerns in small communities constrained access to additional resources such as interpersonal supportive relationships. Survivors contextualized abuse within intergenerational trauma, drew on cultural identity and spirituality as distinct meaning-making pathways, and cited children/grandchildren and helping others as central purposes. Conclusions Healing occurs through reinforcing poly-strengths rather than isolated protective factors. Our findings contribute to resilience portfolio model by building on the importance of environmental strengths and how cultural identities create distinct resilience pathways. Implications include culturally responsive and supportive services, innovative service delivery in rural areas, and reforms to transportation policies. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).