Empowerment Group Intervention with Women Surviving Violence: Randomized Mixed-Methods Trial


Özmete E., Akgül Gök F., Serpen A. S., Akgün C., Yılmaz Aktaş E.

RESEARCH ON SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE, vol.10117710497315251386751, no.https://doi.org/10.1177/10497315251386751, pp.1-13, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 10117710497315251386751 Issue: https://doi.org/10.1177/10497315251386751
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/10497315251386751
  • Journal Name: RESEARCH ON SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Academic Search Premier, ASSIA, Child Development & Adolescent Studies, CINAHL, Education Abstracts, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), EBSCO Education Source, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index, Social services abstracts, Sociological abstracts, Violence & Abuse Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-13
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose

To determine whether an eight-week empowerment group boosts mindfulness-based self-efficacy, self-compassion, and authenticity in women survivors of violence.

Method

A sequential explanatory mixed-methods randomized controlled design was used. Twenty volunteers (25–65 years) were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 10) or wait-list control group (n = 10). The intervention cohort attended weekly 90-min sessions. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-test with the Mindfulness-Based Self-Efficacy Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, and Authenticity Scale. Independent t-tests and Wilcoxon tests evaluated change; session field notes and exit interviews underwent thematic analysis.

Results

Relative to controls, participants showed significant gains in self-efficacy (p = .002), self-compassion (p = .001), and authenticity (p = .009). Qualitative data revealed that the group provided a safe setting to voice trauma and rebuild coping through mutual support.

Conclusion

Empowerment-focused group work strengthens key psychosocial resources and supports the recovery trajectories of women affected by violence.