Partner Violence and Substance Abuse Are Intertwined: Women's Perceptions of Violence-Substance Connections

• NCJ Number: 245956
• Journal: Violence Against Women Volume: 19 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2013 Pages: 881-902
• Author(s): Rebecca J. Macy; Connie Renz; Emily Pelino
• Date Published: July 2013
• Length: 22 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Research shows that co-occurring partner violence and substance abuse are problems for many women.

Abstract

Research shows that co-occurring partner violence and substance abuse are problems for many women. However, less is known about women's varied experiences with partner violence and substance abuse. This exploratory, qualitative study investigates these two issues among a sample of 15 women in substance abuse treatment who experienced partner violence. Overall, findings show participants' experience of violence-substance connections varied in important ways; complicating factors exacerbate both problems; and domestic violence services and substance abuse treatments should account for these variations and complications. We discuss directions for providers, researchers, and policymakers concerned with partner violence or substance abuse. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage.