NCJ Number
211588
Journal
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse: A Review Journal Volume: 6 Issue: 4 Dated: October 2005 Pages: 286-312
Date Published
October 2005
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This literature review examines the impact of intimate partner violence (IPV) on victims as employees and their workplaces.
Abstract
After a brief discussion of the definition and consequences of IPV, this study reviews the research and related literature in addressing the types of job-interference tactics used by abusers, employee-level consequences of partner violence, victimized employee responses to IPV, organizational-level consequences of IPV, and employer responses to IPV. The research to date suggests that IPV does not prevent victims from working; however, it does prevent them from maintaining long-term stable jobs because of having to leave jobs for safety reasons. Job-interference tactics by abusers are typically work disruption and work-related stalking. These tactics have significant ramifications for the victimized employee in terms of work performance as well as her workplace. For the employer, these job-interference tactics by the abuser adversely impact the costs of production, health care, administration, and liability. Although some employers view these abuser tactics as a form of workplace violence, others resist labeling it as such due to the stigma associated with partner violence. The varied responses by employers when they become aware of job-interference tactics being directed against an employee IPV victim range from job termination to the provision of informal and/or formal supports. There is limited research on the cost effectiveness of employer efforts to provide supports for employees victimized by IPV. Despite the potential for positive outcomes from an employee disclosing her victimization, research suggests that many victims do not feel comfortable in informing someone at work. This report sets an agenda for further research and practice interventions regarding IPV victimization and employment. 104 references