Intersectionality in IPV/sexual violence risk and service delivery suggests which practice?

• A. Treat all survivors the same regardless of background.
• B. Use culturally responsive practices that account for race, gender, sexuality, disability, immigration, and class.
• C. Focus on physical violence only.
• D. Ignore immigration status.

Answer: (B)

Recognizing how overlapping identities shape risk and access is central here. In IPV and sexual violence practice, this means delivering care that understands how race, gender, sexuality, disability, immigration status, and class interact to affect a survivor’s vulnerability, willingness to seek help, and ability to stay safe. Practically, this leads to culturally responsive practices: tailoring risk assessment and safety planning to a survivor’s lived experience, providing language access and interpreters, ensuring accessible services and facilities, employing diverse staff, and partnering with trusted community organizations. It also means acknowledging real barriers like fear of deportation, discrimination, or stigma, and addressing them so survivors can access the support they need.

Treating all survivors the same ignores these differences and creates barriers. Focusing only on physical violence misses coercive control and other forms of abuse that are equally dangerous. Ignoring immigration status overlooks safety concerns and trust essential to accessing services.