partner violence

Psychological Perspectives on Crime

Course Code: PY0572

Instructor: Amy Newman

Overview of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

In this course, we will explore a comprehensive study of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), focusing on definitions, various types, prevalence rates, at-risk groups, the multifaceted impacts on victims, and the underlying reasons individuals may remain in abusive situations.

Definitions of IPV

• Historical Terms: Traditional terminologies such as 'battered women' or 'woman abuse' largely emphasized the overt physical and sexual abuse directed at women.

• Evolving Definition (WHO, 2024): The updated definition now encompasses a broader spectrum of abusive behaviors, including not only physical aggression and sexual coercion but also psychological abuse and controlling behaviors perpetrated by current or former intimate partners. It is crucial to note that domestic abuse can extend beyond romantic relationships and encompasses various types of familial abuse.

Types of IPV

• Physical Abuse:

  • This is the most recognized and prevalent form of IPV, which includes:

    • Punching, slapping, hitting, pinching, and kicking.

    • Choking, strangulation, and applying pressure to the neck.

    • The use of objects as weapons and various forms of physical intimidation.

    • Legal considerations under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 provide clarity on associated charges and protections available for victims.

• Stalking:

  • Involves persistent unwanted behaviors that intrude upon the victim's life and induce fear or distress.

    • This can manifest through patterns of surveillance, intimidation, and interference in personal space and life.

    • The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 delineates the legal repercussions for such stalking behaviors, emphasizing victims' rights and protections.

• Online Abuse:

  • Encompasses a range of technological abuses, such as:

    • Monitoring communications through various digital platforms, tracking a victim’s location with GPS, and sending threatening or abusive messages.

    • The employment of spyware and social media for harassment and intimidation.

• Intimate Image Abuse:

  • Often referred to as revenge porn or the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, victims of this abuse face significant trauma due to victim-blaming and difficulty in achieving recognition of the harm caused.

    • Important legal frameworks are established under the Online Safety Act (2023) to protect against such abuses.

• Financial Abuse:

  • Involves the perpetrator exerting control over the victim's financial resources, affecting their economic autonomy and independence.

    • This can manifest through control over spending habits, access to income, and freedom in making financial decisions.

    • Financial abuse is often intertwined with other forms of coercive control.

• Coercive Control:

  • This is a more insidious form of abuse that utilizes psychological and emotional manipulation strategies to dominate victims.

    • Signs that may indicate coercive control include isolation from family and friends, deprivation from basic needs, constant monitoring, and various intimidation tactics.

    • Legal definitions and consequences are highlighted under both the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and the Serious Crimes Act 2015.

Prevalence of IPV

• Globally, IPV is a significant issue with alarming statistics reflecting its prevalence:

  • Approximately 1 in 4 women are estimated to experience IPV at some point in their lives.

  • About 30% of women worldwide report having faced this form of violence.

  • Annual data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) indicates that approximately 2.3 million adults have experienced domestic abuse in the past year alone.

At-Risk Groups

• Racial and Ethnic Minorities:

  • Certain racial groups, particularly African Americans and Māori, experience higher rates of IPV, with studies indicating that immigration status can exacerbate vulnerability.

• Economic Status:

  • There is a strong correlation between lower household income and an increased risk of IPV, with studies indicating that individuals in social housing are more at risk compared to homeowners.

• Disabilities:

  • Disabled individuals, especially women, face significantly higher prevalence rates of IPV compared to those without disabilities, with compelling statistics highlighting this disparity.

• LGBTQ+ Communities:

  • IPV is notably prevalent among individuals within LGBTQ+ communities, especially within marginalized identities, leading to increased risk factors due to intersectionality.

• Men as Victims:

  • Male victimization remains underreported due to societal stigma and expectations regarding masculinity, leading to a lack of specific recognition and support services available to this demographic.

Situational Factors in IPV

• Teen Dating Violence:

  • High prevalence of IPV among teens has been documented, with considerable percentages reporting abusive experiences that can lead to long-term consequences, including future IPV exposure and risk behaviors.

• Pregnancy:

  • IPV risk significantly escalates during pregnancy, with notable incidences of psychological abuse and adverse outcomes resulting from these situations.

• Older Adults:

  • Limited but emerging research indicates that IPV is a concerning issue among older adults, who are often underrepresented in IPV data, yet significant cases exist reflecting unique dynamics.

• Post-Sport Events:

  • There is a notable increase in IPV incidents following sports events, particularly during contexts involving alcohol consumption and aggression, suggesting a need for awareness in such scenarios.

Victim Impacts

• Physical Health:

  • Victims often report common injuries, including contusions and head injuries, with long-term health implications that may involve chronic conditions, cardiovascular issues, and substance abuse problems stemming from the abuse.

• Mental Health:

  • The mental health challenges faced by victims are significant, with heightened risks for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and self-harm behaviors commonly reported.

• Employment Challenges:

  • IPV is linked to considerable employment challenges, including increased risks of unemployment and difficulties within work environments associated with circumstances surrounding the abuse.

Reasons for Staying in Abusive Relationships

• Fear and Danger:

  • A pronounced fear of imminent danger often arises post-separation, with statistics indicating high rates of female homicides after leaving an abusive partner.

• Isolation and Lack of Support:

  • Many victims face challenges in accessing essential resources when isolated from external supportive networks, which greatly impairs their ability to seek help.

• Stigma and Cultural Norms:

  • Societal pressures, cultural norms, and feelings of shame often serve as barriers, preventing individuals from seeking assistance and facilitating their entrapment in abusive cycles.

IPV Stigmatization Model

• Anticipated Stigma:

  • Victims often worry about societal judgment, which can severely impact their willingness to seek help or support.

• Internalized Stigma:

  • Many victims internalize negative self-beliefs related to their victimization, further complicating their recovery and help-seeking behaviors.

• Cultural Stigma:

  • Societal myths that de-legitimize IPV play a crucial role in the underreporting of incidents and the stigma faced by victims seeking assistance.

Legal Support for Victims After Leaving

• Domestic Abuse Act 2021:

  • This Act introduces a range of legal protections and support mechanisms, including Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders, aimed at safeguarding victims and ensuring appropriate legal recourse.

• Support Structures:

  • Ongoing debates address the adequacy of safe accommodations and resources available to various demographics affected by IPV, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems.

Conclusion

This presentation highlights the evolving understanding of IPV, emphasizing necessary reforms in legal frameworks, support systems, and societal perceptions. An acknowledgment of the multifaceted nature of IPV encourages an informed discourse surrounding policies and responses tailored to support victims effectively.