"Bring my scooter so I can leave you" - A study of disabled women handlingabuse by personal assistance providers

This study investigated the perceptions and experiences of women with physi cal and cognitive disabilities related to abuse by formal and informal pers onal assistance providers. Focus groups and individual interviews were cond ucted with 72 women to explore how women define personal assistance abuse, the barriers they face in handling abuse, and strategies they recommend to prevent and/or stop abuse. Key themes that emerged included (a) the role of social and personal boundary confusion and power dynamics within the perso nal assistance services relationship; (b) expanded forms of abuse experienc ed by women with disabilities; (c) the complexity of using family and frien ds as providers; (d) personal, social, and systemic barriers that impede wo men's response to abuse; and (e) the benefits of supports that validate wom en's experiences and bolster their capacities to prevent and manage abuse. Findings suggested that, with experience, support, and appropriate resource s, women with disabilities can effectively manage this challenge.