Problem: Doug works as a social worker at a police department for a large urban community. As a part of his position, he coordinates with community social service agencies to ensure that victims of violent crime receive advocacy and counseling services. Doug has noticed an increase in the number of female undocumented immigrant victims. These women are typically hesitant to disclose the abuse to law enforcement because they are often threatened by their partners that they will be reported to immigration services. Doug is familiar with the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) (Pub. L. 103-322), and understands that this law provides a range of benefits to identified victims of domestic violence except victims who are undocumented immigrants. He recently learned that after considerable controversy, the most recent reauthorization of the legislation now provides some level of protection for the undocumented immigrant population.
How might Doug engage with his clients using the strengths perspective to help them understand the importance of reporting their victimization and seeking justice?