Graduate Research Assistant Texas State University
This qualitative study explores the mental health and service utilization patterns of Malawian women in Blesser relationships through the lens of Social Exchange Theory. Findings highlight negative mental health outcomes for the women involved, where their need for financial stability outweighs the cost and ultimately affects their access to services.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
Upon completion, the participant will be able to define Blesser relationships, and understand the power dynamics involved in the relationships including the mental health implications on Malawian women involved.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to recognize factors contributing to involvement in Blesser relationships, silent mental health burdens and service utilization among Malawian women in these relationships.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to recognize how gendered power dynamics, economic dependency and transactional relationships affect women's mental health and access to support services through the lens of Social Exchange Theory.
