Anti-Domestic Violence Training for Hairstylists in Black Communities: A Policy Feasibility Study

This paper reports on the findings of a policy feasibility study. The study examined the feasibility of mandatory anti-domestic violence training legislation for Black communities in Virginia. The study used a mixed-method approach, incorporating surveys of 33 hairstylists and interviews with three key stakeholders. The results revealed that hairstylists are receptive to anti-domestic violence training and perceive themselves as valuable resources for addressing domestic violence. However, participants cautioned against making training compulsory. The study also found that Virginia legislators would likely support mandating anti-domestic violence training for hair professionals. The study concludes that there is value in adopting incentivized and easily accessible anti-domestic violence training laws for Virginia hair professionals. This study presents numerous implications, such as the need for further research to explore the impact of engaging hairstylists and other community leaders in domestic violence intervention efforts.