Recruitment Now Closed!
May 2025 – Present
Project Title: A phenomenological study of the lived experiences of gender-based violence among disabled women and gender diverse people in Newfoundland and Labrador
Principal Investigator: Dr. Ami Goulden, Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, Memorial University
Research Coordinator: Jullye Ponsoni, Mitacs Globalink Research Intern (Psychology, Federal University of Paraná, Brazil)
Funding: Mitacs Globalink Research Award; Memorial University Vice-President Research Start-up Support
About the Study:
Disabled women experience disproportionately high rates of gender-based violence (GBV), with rates in Newfoundland and Labrador exceeding that of other Canadian provinces. Despite growing awareness of this issue, the voices of disabled women—particularly in Atlantic Canada—remain largely absent from research. This study seeks to address that gap by exploring their lived experiences and the ways disability shapes experiences of violence, access to support, and recovery.
Using in-depth, semi-structured interviews, this study engaged disabled women (ages 25–50) in Newfoundland and Labrador who have experienced GBV. Participants self-identified with a range of disabilities, including developmental, physical, neurodivergence, chronic illness, and mental health conditions. Recruitment was conducted in collaboration with community organizations, local networks, and outreach efforts to ensure broad and diverse representation.
By applying Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, this study examines the unique barriers disabled women face in navigating safety, autonomy, and support systems. It contributes to the growing body of research calling for intersectional, trauma-informed approaches that address the compounded impacts of GBV on disabled survivors. The findings will inform policy, practice, and advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening protections and support networks for disabled women in Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.
Anticipated Results: Fall 2025!
A screen reader friendly version of the recruitment poster is available for download.