NCJ Number
213551
Journal
Victims & Offenders Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: 2006 Pages: 79-97
Date Published
2006
Length
19 pages
Annotation
After reviewing early research on the nature and causes of intimate partner violence (IPV), this article draws on Chiffriller and Hennessy's recent research (2002) into the typology of the perpetrators of such violence and discusses its implications for treatment.
Abstract
Early research on the causes of IPV explained it under the following concepts: social learning (imitation of violent behavior in the abuser's own family); family systems (establish a preferred interaction through control); and the feminist perspective (violence as a means of establishing male superiority). Chiffriller and Hennessy attempted to expand upon and correct for the methodological limitations of previous research by using cluster analysis to develop five profiles of men who perpetrate IPV. The "pathological" subtype is characterized by severe and pervasive alienation and interpersonal problems. The "sexually violent" subtype is distinctive due to the use of severe sexual coercion to resolve conflict with the partner. "Generally violent" IPV offenders commonly use violence instead of verbal means to resolve conflict in interpersonal relationships in general. The "psychologically violent" subtype uses verbal attacks and the destruction of the partner's personal property along with physical abuse. "Family-only" offenders limit their violence in interactions to the intimate partner. The treatment of IPV offenders must focus on the particular motives, needs, and coping styles of the offender that underlies violent behavior in intimate relationships and, in some subtypes, relationships in general. In addition, an issue relevant to all offender subtypes is the high rate of alcohol and substance abuse. Research has found that over half of all IPV offenders have problems with alcohol. Future research might examine how each subtype responds to various treatment approaches. 53 references