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ABSTRACT
Little research has been carried out on the links between drug misuse and domestic violence. This article attempts to address this gap by presenting key findings and recommendations from research carried out by Perpetuity Research and Consultancy International Ltd in the West Midlands exploring the links between substance misuse and domestic violence.
KEY WORDS domestic violence drugs research
EXPLORING THE LINKS BETWEEN DOMESTIC ABUSE AND DRUGS
Domestic abuse occurs across society, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, wealth and geography. However, it is predominantly women who suffer as a result of it (Walby & Allen, 2004); it is estimated that one in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes (Council of Europe, 2002) and two women each week are killed by a current or former partner (Home Office, 2001). Whilst the links between domestic violence and alcohol abuse have been well explored (Finney, 2004), those between drug misuse and domestic violence are less well researched.
To understand the issue more fully, during the summer of 2004 Perpetuity Research and Consultancy International Ltd were asked to undertake a countywide review in the West Midlands to explore the links between domestic abuse and substance misuse. This article draws on some of the key findings and recommendations identified through qualitative interviews with service providers and a review of the existing literature.
USE AND IMPACT
There are close links between substance misuse and domestic violence; many severe substance misusers often have a history of abuse. Illegal and prescribed drugs are used as a coping mechanism to block out past abuse and boost self-esteem. There is also evidence to suggest that the use of alcohol or drugs by either partner may increase the likelihood of domestic violence. However substance misuse in itself does not cause abuse and is not an excuse for violence, it can however act as a catalyst within abusive relationships, potentially making the impact of violence worse, and limiting sources of...