Survivors’ Perspectives on Positive Life Changes and Growth After Intimate Partner Abuse

Testing Connections With Coercive Controlling Violence

Bibliographic Data

ID12437854
AuthorsTamara L Newton (0000-0003-1116-154X, University of Louisville, corresponding author), Yvette Z Szabo (0000-0002-5436-7081, University of Louisville), Ashlee J Warnecke (University of Louisville), Ashlee Warnecke (University of Louisville), Alexis M Cerrillos (0009-0005-7082-6283, University of Louisville)
Year2025
Pages10778012251356948-10778012251356948
Publication date2025-07-08
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueViolence Against Women (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1077-8012 • E-ISSN: 1552-8448
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/10778012251356948
PMID40625193
OpenAlexW4412110834
LanguageEN
References cited32

The present study used mixed methods to advance understanding of positive life changes and perceived growth following intimate partner abuse (IPA), focusing on coercive controlling violence. Women completed open-ended interview questions about positive changes and growth following divorce. Seven domains of positive changes and twelve domains of perceived growth were coded. Quantitative IPA measures assessed prior exposure to direct assault and dominance/isolation abuse. Positive changes in self-improvement, relationships, and internal self were common, as was growth in self-concept and independence. Improved financial situation was an unanticipated positive change. No statistically significant associations between IPA measures and overall counts of positive changes or growth were observed. Methodological considerations for studies of IPA-related growth are discussed

Domestic violence · Injury prevention · Medical emergency · Occupational safety and health · Poison control · Suicide prevention · Human Factors and Ergonomics · Intimate Partner and Family Violence · Medicine · Psychology

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