Intimate partner violence (IPV) involves behaviours which cause physical, psychological, and/or sexual harm to those within a current relationship.
Some groups are known to be at higher risk for intimate partner violence including:
- Younger women and girls
- People with disabilities
- Sexual minorities
- Indigenous women and girls
What does intersectionality mean in the context of intimate partner violence research?
The intersectionality framework can be used to describe the ways in which a person’s multiple identities interact due to intersecting power dynamics.
Intersectionality helps researchers address the specific needs of underserved groups who face barriers when trying to access help. It is essential to consider these groups as these individuals face even more vulnerabilities, putting them at a higher risk of experiencing Intimate Partner Violence.
Connection to Co-Research
By using co-research to understand how interesting identities impact intimate partner violence, research can be used to inform the development of more effective prevention and intervention strategies that are culturally responsive to underserved groups.
Sources:
- Women and Gender Equality Canada. (2024). Intimate partner violence.
- Crenshaw, K. (1991). Mapping the Margins: Intersectionality, Identity Politics, and Violence against Women of Color. Stanford Law Review, 43(6), 1241–1299.
- Cardenas, I. (2023). Advancing intersectionality approaches in intimate partner violence research: A social justice approach. Journal of Ethnic & Cultural Diversity in Social Work: Innovation in Theory, Research & Practice, 32(1), 1–11.
