The Social Dimensions of Intimate Partner Violence: A Qualitative Study with Male Perpetrators

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) takes several forms, such as physical and sexual violence, emotional and social abuse, threats and intimidation, and economic deprivation. For its prevalence and its harmful consequences, it has been defined as a salient public health issue. Studies about perpetrators have often focused on individual risk factors and changing attitudes during IPV treatment. However, literature on IPV underlines the need of more research from a social-ecological perspective, especially considering social and cultural influences. The present qualitative study aimed at extending past research on men attending IPV treatment, considering not only the individual experience, but also the role of social and cultural dimensions, such as gender stereotypes and mass media. Twenty-one authors of IPV—in treatment for at least 6 months—were interviewed. A thematic analysis was carried out and involved line-by-line coding with codes deriving from narratives. Three major themes emerged: the conception of violence and the influence of gender stereotypes; the process of change during treatment; and the social and cultural representation of perpetrators. Findings highlight the necessity of taking into account the social and cultural contexts in which IPV occurs and provide robust support for the adoption of an ecological approach to IPV. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.