Jersee Hill
A Review of the Indigenous Connections Manual to Break the Cycle of Violence
Indigenous women experience interpersonal violence at disproportionately high rates, while prevention programs that reflect their needs remain limited. Breaking the Cycle developed Connections, a structured interpersonal violence prevention program for women with young children, in response to violence experienced by women using its services.
The Connections manual was previously adapted for Indigenous communities. Jersee’s project examines how it could be strengthened further to better reflect the experiences of Indigenous women experiencing violence in relationships.
Approach and methodology
The research will bring together professional and lived experience. Planned activities include focus groups with Indigenous women who have worked in violence prevention and follow-up interviews with Indigenous women who have participated in Connections.
Their feedback will help inform the next revision of the manual.
Expected contribution
The project aims to provide guidance for a future revision of Connections and to make the program more relevant to Indigenous women’s experiences and needs. Drawing together academic, professional and lived experience can help identify what should be retained and what could be improved.
About the researcher
Jersee Hill (she/her) is Mohawk from Six Nations of the Grand River and a master’s student in clinical-developmental psychology at York University. She previously completed an honours Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Psychology in Human Behaviour at McMaster University. Her interests focus on supporting the mental health and wellness of Indigenous children and families. She is committed to combining community-engaged research with future clinical practice.
