Lecture 6: Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence

A pattern of behaviors intended to establish power and control over an intimate partner through intimidation and fear.

Asymmetric Violence

The concept that intimate partner violence is primarily perpetrated by one gender, specifically men, against women.

Symmetric Violence

The idea that men and women commit intimate partner violence at equal rates.

Cycle of Violence (Walker)

A model describing the repeating phases of tension building, explosion, and honeymoon in abusive relationships.

Tension Building Phase

The initial phase of the cycle of violence where stress and strain build up before an explosion.

Explosion Phase

The phase in the cycle of violence where abusive behavior escalates to physical or emotional abuse.

Honeymoon Phase

The period following an explosion in which the abuser may apologize and the victim may experience a temporary relief.

Signs of an Abusive Personality

Indicators that may suggest someone has abusive tendencies, including jealousy, control, and unrealistic expectations.

Teen Power and Control Wheel

A diagram that illustrates the various ways in which teens can exert power and control over their partners.

Battering Husbands

Men who not only abuse their intimate partners but are also likely to abuse their children.

Emergency Room Visits

Domestic violence is the leading cause of women going to the emergency room for injury-related issues.

Jealousy

A common trait in abusive relationships, where the abuser displays distrust and possessiveness.