Facilitators of Recovery and Healing Among Multicultural Victim-Survivors of Family Violence: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

Previous research has identified certain factors that support the healing and recovery of victim-survivors of family violence; however, far less is known about the recovery experiences of women from diverse cultural backgrounds. Therefore, this meta-synthesis analysed existing qualitative evidence from the literature to explore the facilitators of recovery and healing among multicultural victim-survivors of family violence. Ten databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles and grey literature published between 2014 and October 2024. Studies that included non-Anglo-Saxon women who had experienced family or intimate partner violence as adults and examined factors that promoted recovery and healing were selected. A total of 25 studies with 407 participants published between 2015 and 2024 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the results. Studies represented over 15 different cultural groups across various countries and contexts. Thematic synthesis of the included studies led to the development of the following seven key analytical themes: (1) informal and formal supports, (2) the role of children, (3) spirituality and faith, (4) agency and reconnecting to self, (5) purposeful mind-body practices, (6) self-development through prosocial behaviour, and (7) perseverance and envisioning a better future. The findings illustrate that recovery and healing among multicultural victim-survivors is a dynamic, multifaceted process influenced by interrelated factors. An increased understanding of these facilitators will help inform culturally responsive and trauma-informed care that more effectively addresses the needs of multicultural women experiencing family violence.