Theorizing the Process of Leaving: Turning Points and Trajectories in the Stages of Change
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2007
Journal / Book Title
Family Relations
Abstract
The Stages of Change Model (J. O. Prochaska & C. C. DiClemente, 1984) has been used to explore women's process of leaving relationships involving intimate partner violence. Using a strengths-based approach, this study aims to build upon the model to further theorize the process of leaving. We conducted secondary data analysis of interviews with 19 mothers who left their abusive husbands. Turning points marked mothers' movements from one stage of change to another, resulting in linear and nonlinear trajectories of leaving. All turning points were similar across cases except for the turning point between the stages of action and preparation. Consequently, 3 variations in the trajectories of leaving were found. The theoretical and practical implications for future work with abused mothers are discussed.
DOI
10.1111/j.1741-3729.2007.00470.x
MSU Digital Commons Citation
Khaw, Lyndal and Hardesty, Jennifer L., "Theorizing the Process of Leaving: Turning Points and Trajectories in the Stages of Change" (2007). Department of Family Science and Human Development Scholarship and Creative Works. 181.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/familysci-facpubs/181
Published Citation
Khaw, L. and Hardesty, J.L. (2007), Theorizing the Process of Leaving: Turning Points and Trajectories in the Stages of Change*. Family Relations, 56: 413-425. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3729.2007.00470.x