Ending Intimate Partner Violence: Preventative versus Restorative Interventions - Are We Waiting Too Long?

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore the connection between experiences of childhood family violence and the perpetration of intimate partner violence. Rooted in an interpretivist methodology, the perceptions and experiences of six male participants were explored via individual interviews. The participants identified having experienced/witnessed family violence. They too stated perpetuating intimate partner violence. The participants were asked questions exploring how they perceived their childhood experiences and/or exposure to family violence to have and continue to impact them into adulthood. Based on the stories of these participants, four major themes were identified; however, ultimately, the importance of adequate and appropriate responses to the external manifestations of the impacts of family violence was emphasized. The discussion urges that current restorative responses to intimate partner violence be evaluated for ones that are preventative in nature, as well as suggested based on the specific needs of each individual.