Keywords

Intimate partner violence, Gender, Perpetrator, Rationalization

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the way male perpetrators’ perceive and explain intimate partner violence (IPV) in their relationship. Specifically, men were invited to reflect upon their role in their relationship when violence exists, their contributions to the violence, and how they felt about it. Using coding procedures from grounded theory methodology, researchers analyzed data from 13 men who had been in violent relationships. Seven key themes were identified from 104 significant statements. These themes included justification, relapse, control, anger, emotional threshold, triggers, and remorse. Clinical implications as well as suggestions for future research are presented.

Original Publication Citation

Whiting, J. B., Parker, T., & Houghtaling, A. (2014). Explanations of a Violent Relationship: The Male Perpetrator’s Perspective. Journal of Family Violence, DOI: 10.1007/s10896-014-9582-9