When Intimate Partner Violence Meets Same Sex Couples: A Review of Same Sex Intimate Partner Violence

Perales F., Todd A.

Lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) people experience poorer life outcomes than heterosexual people, with ongoing debates about the aetiology of these differences. Minority stress theory draws attention to the importance of structural stigma, which concerns hostile social environments for sexual minorities that constrain their opportunity structures. Yet few studies have operationalised structural stigma and tested its influence, with most focusing on the US context; even fewer studies examine the underlying mechanisms.This study expands the available evidence to Australia, which constitutes an interesting case study due to the implementation in late 2017 of a national postal plebiscite on same-sex marriage legislation. It also adds to knowledge by theorising and testing the mediating role of perceived social support in explaining the association between structural stigma and the life outcomes of LGB people.The analyses leverage geographical variation at the electorate level (n = 150) in the share of 'No' voters in the plebiscite as a measure of structural stigma. This aggregate-level information is merged to individual-level data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey, a large, national probability sample (n∽15,000).Multilevel regression models yield results which are consistent with minority stress theory and previous US scholarship: LGB people report comparatively worse life satisfaction, mental health and overall health in constituencies with higher shares of 'No' voters, controlling for a large set of individual- and aggregate-level confounds. Perceived social support mediates a large portion of the effects of structural stigma on LGB outcomes.These findings have significant implications for policy and practice, highlighting the need for interventions aimed at reducing community levels of structural stigma and increasing social support to LGB populations.

Pepping C.A., Lyons A., Halford W.K., Cronin T.J., Pachankis J.E.

The present article examined couple service utilization in adults in same-sex relationships, as well as satisfaction with couple services, and preferences regarding content, delivery, and tailoring of services. Couples accessed services relatively infrequently and were generally dissatisfied with the usefulness of such services. Most participants (87%) endorsed the importance of couple interventions being tailored specifically for same-sex couples. Concerns such as financial constraints and time limitations were identified as barriers to accessing services, in addition to stigma-related barriers such as fear of discrimination and a lack of appropriately trained practitioners to work with same-sex couples. It is expected that the findings of the present article can inform future research and practice and help to improve the relationships of same-sex couples.

Furman E., Barata P., Wilson C., Fante-Coleman T.

Winstead B.A., Lewis R.J., Kelley M.L., Mason T.B., Fitzgerald H.N., Calhoun D.

Abstract Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious and common problem in the relationships of gay men and lesbians, yet interventions to address same‐sex IPV have not been developed and evaluated. This chapter reviews the empirical literature regarding sexual‐minority‐specific and general risk factors for same‐sex IPV and barriers to seeking treatment. Interventions for IPV in heterosexual couples and research on effectiveness of these interventions are also reviewed. Drawing on these reviews, recommendations for culturally tailored interventions to address same‐sex IPV are presented.

Pepping C.A., Lyons A., McNair R., Kirby J.N., Petrocchi N., Gilbert P.

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) men and women represent one of the highest-risk populations for depressive symptomatology and disorders, with young LGB adults being at greatest risk. To date, there have been no randomized controlled trials (RCT) to specifically target depressive symptoms in young LGB adults. This is despite research highlighting unique predictors of depressive symptomatology in this population. Here we outline a protocol for an RCT that will test the preliminary efficacy of a tailored compassion-focused therapy (CFT) intervention for young LGB adults compared with a self-directed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program with no specific tailoring for LGB individuals. The CFT intervention consists of 8 units with self-directed reading and activities tailored to LGB young adults, and 8 x weekly 1-hour consultations with a therapist. The CBT intervention consists of 8 units with self-guided reading and activities, with 1 x 1-hour session with a therapist at the mid-point of therapy. Fifty LGB individuals with scores of 13 or above on the Beck Depression Inventory-II will be randomized to either the CFT or CBT condition. The primary outcome measure is depressive symptomatology. Secondary outcome measures are symptoms of anxiety, suicidal ideation, internalized homophobia, self-compassion, and shame and guilt proneness. Assessments will occur at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at 3-month post-intervention. This study is an RCT to test the preliminary efficacy of an LGB-tailored compassion-focused intervention for young LGB adults with depressive symptomatology. If this intervention is efficacious, this could begin to address the substantial mental health disparities amongst sexual minorities. ACTRN12616001018404 . Prospective registration, registered 02/08/2016.

Gates G.J.

Author(s): Gates, Gary J | Abstract: A new chapter in Future of Children by Gary J. Gates, Blachford-Cooper Distinguished Scholar and Research Director at the Williams Institute explores what's next for research on LGBT families. As debates about marriage equality cool, researchers can explore new questions about LGBT family dynamics, including how parents divide labor in the absence of gender differences between spouses or partners and whether parent-child relationships change in ways that are consistent with gender norms when a parent transitions from one gender to another. For the first time, the 2014 General Social Survey showed that the portion of Americans who think same-sex sexual relationships are never wrong (49%) is substantially higher than the proportion who say such relationships are always wrong (40%), according to the chapter. The chapter, titled Marriage and Family: LGBT Individuals and Same-Sex Couples, appears in the newest issue of Future of Children, a collaboration between the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University and the Brookings Institution.

Ali P.A., Dhingra K., McGarry J.

Intimate partner violence is an important issue and attempts to distinguish typologies of intimate partner violence are necessary to understand the complexities of intimate partner violence, its various causes, correlates, and consequences. Over the last two decades, much research was aimed at classifying types of violence depending on the similarities and differences in patterns of violence. However, it is difficult to find a single account that provides a succinct and up-to-date overview of these classifications. As a result, considerable effort is required to identify and retrieve relevant papers to understand each typology or classification of intimate partner violence. This article provides a succinct and up-to-date integrative review of various classifications of intimate partner violence. Typologies by form of abuse, type of violence, type of perpetrator (men and women) are critically reviewed in the light of available literature and the strengths and limitations of each are described. Recommendations for further research are also provided.

Cannon C., Hamel J., Buttell F., Ferreira R.J.

A 15-page questionnaire, the North American Domestic Violence Intervention Program Survey, was sent to directors of 3,246 domestic violence perpetrator programs (also known as batterer intervention programs, or BIPs) in the United States and Canada. Respondent contact information was obtained from state Coalitions Against Domestic Violence and from various government agencies (e.g., Attorney General) available on the Internet. Two hundred thirty-eight programs completed and returned the questionnaire, a response rate of 20%. The survey yielded descriptive data on respondent characteristics; program philosophy, structure, content, and service; client characteristics; treatment approach and adjunct services; and group facilitator views on intervention approaches and domestic violence policy and treatment standards. The programs varied in the extent to which they adhere to treatment approaches suggested by the empirical research literature. In addition, chi-square analyses were conducted on the associations between several factors. Significant correlations were found between respondent low level of education and adherence to a feminist-gendered program philosophy; respondent low level of education and use of a shorter assessment protocol; feminist-gendered program philosophy and incorrect facilitator knowledge about domestic violence; and feminist-gendered program philosophy and a program focus on power and control as the primary cause of domestic violence.

Calton J.M., Cattaneo L.B., Gebhard K.T.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive and devastating social problem that is estimated to occur in one of every four opposite-sex relationships and at least one of every five same-sex romantic relationships. These estimates may not represent violence against those who identify as transgender or genderqueer, and very little comprehensive research has been conducted on IPV within these populations. One statewide study on IPV found rates of IPV were as high as one of every two transgender individuals. In order to cope with the effects of abuse or leave an abusive partner, many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and genderqueer (LGBTQ) IPV survivors seek support from others. However, LGBTQ IPV survivors may experience unique difficulties related to their sexual orientation and gender identity when seeking assistance. This article reviews the literature on LGBTQ IPV and suggests three major barriers to help-seeking exist for LGBTQ IPV survivors: a limited understanding of the problem of LGBTQ IPV, stigma, and systemic inequities. The significance and consequences of each barrier are discussed, and suggestions for future research, policy, and practice are provided.

Costa B.M., Kaestle C.E., Walker A., Curtis A., Day A., Toumbourou J.W., Miller P.

Domestic violence (DV) is a serious and complex social issue which is associated with significant costs to both those individuals who are directly affected and the wider community. Preventative approaches with vulnerable population groups represent an important component of any integrated response to DV and should be informed by an understanding of those factors that influence violence developmentally. This paper reports the findings of a systematic review of longitudinal studies that have prospectively investigated childhood and/or adolescent predictors of DV perpetration and/or victimization among adult men and women in intimate relationships. We identified 25 original studies that met the inclusion criteria, all of which investigated predictors of domestic physical abuse. Few studies prospectively examined psychological, sexual and verbal abuse. Child and adolescent abuse, family of origin risks, child and adolescent behavioral problems, adolescent peer risks, and sociodemographic risks were all identified as significant predictors of DV perpetration and victimization. It is concluded that early childhood and adolescent factors are consistent predictors in the development of DV perpetration and victimization and that prevention and early intervention approaches targeting these factors are likely to prove the most effective.

Pachankis J.E., Hatzenbuehler M.L., Rendina H.J., Safren S.A., Parsons J.T.

We tested the preliminary efficacy of a transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral treatment adapted to improve depression, anxiety, and co-occurring health risks (i.e., alcohol use, sexual compulsivity, condomless sex) among young adult gay and bisexual men. Treatment adaptations focused on reducing minority stress processes that underlie sexual orientation-related mental health disparities.Young gay and bisexual men (n = 63; M age = 25.94) were randomized to immediate treatment or a 3-month waitlist. At baseline, 3-month, and 6-month assessments, participants completed self-reports of mental health and minority stress and an interview of past-90-day risk behavior.Compared to waitlist, treatment significantly reduced depressive symptoms (b = -2.43, 95% CI: -4.90, 0.35, p < .001), alcohol use problems (b = -3.79, 95% CI: -5.94, -1.64, p < .001), sexual compulsivity (b = -5.09, 95% CI: -8.78, -1.40, p < .001), and past-90-day condomless sex with casual partners (b = -1.09, 95% CI: -1.80, -0.37, p < .001), and improved condom use self-efficacy (b = 10.08, 95% CI: 3.86, 16.30, p < .001). The treatment yielded moderate and marginally significant greater improvements than waitlist in anxiety symptoms (b = -2.14, 95% CI: -4.61, 0.34, p = .09) and past-90-day heavy drinking (b = -0.32, 95% CI: -0.71, 0.07, p = .09). Effects were generally maintained at follow-up. Minority stress processes showed small improvements in the expected direction.This study demonstrated preliminary support for the first intervention adapted to address gay and bisexual men's co-occurring health problems at their source in minority stress. If found to be efficacious compared to standard evidence-based treatments, the treatment will possess substantial potential for helping clinicians translate LGB-affirmative treatment guidelines into evidence-based practice. (PsycINFO Database Record

Barrett B.J.

Since the mid 1980s, a growing body of theoretical and empirical literature has examined the existence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities. Collectively, this research has suggested that IPV in rainbow communities occurs at rates comparable to those documented among heterosexual populations and results in similar detrimental psychological, social, and physical consequences for victims. Importantly, however, this work has also highlighted myriad ways in which the social and structural marginalization of gender and sexual minority populations create unique vulnerabilities for IPV that are not shared by cissexual and heterosexual individuals. This entry provides an overview of this scholarship to inform strength-based social work practice with and for LGBT survivors of domestic violence at the macro, mezzo, and micro levels.

Strickler E., Drew Q.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) persons experience partner and other violence at high levels requiring culturally competent interventions. Virginia Anti-Violence Project (VAVP)—a 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia (organized in 2006 and incorporated since 2008)—has a mission focusing on LGBTQ experiences of violence, and has collaborative bonds with organizations involved with sexual and partner violence, promoting LGBTQ community health and safety, and concerned with social inclusion and legal protection of LGBTQ individuals, families, and communities. VAVP’s programs have increased provider and community competency and capacity toward improving LGBTQ safety, health, and well-being. Findings from a statewide assessment of transgender Virginians, and other local research informs its programs, including advocacy, training, direct services, and its consulting platform, VAVP’s research, organizational development, and contextual issues may inform other programs in other jurisdictions, identification of critical research questions, and implementation of rigorous program evaluation models toward a shared purpose of preventing LGBTQ partner violence.

Edwards K.M., Sylaska K.M., Neal A.M.

Summary of the Research Literature on IPV AmongLGB PersonsIncidence and Prevalence Rates Sixty-two studies have reported on the incidence and/or preva-lence rates of IPV among LGB individuals. Rates of IPV rangefrom 1% (e.g., Turell [2000] measuring forced sex perpetration incurrent relationships among LGBT individuals) to more than 97%(i.e.,Hequembourg,Parks,V Straus, Hamby, Boney-McCoy, & Sugarman, 1996) find-ing that 33.3% of men in same-sex relationships reporting victim-ization (Craft & Serovich, 2005), and 9.5% of gay and bisexualmen reporting sexual victimization using author-created questions(Feldman, Ream, Diaz, & El-Bassel, 2008). Similar to the higherrates reported by Craft and Serovich (2005), these researchers alsofound that 27.5% of men in same-sex relationships reported sexualIPV perpetration (Craft & Serovich, 2005). Finally, research in-vestigating physical IPV has found that 41.0% of gay and bisexualmen report being the victim and 35.0% report being the perpetratorof at least one act of physical IPV in their lifetime (Bartholomew,Regan, White, & Oram, 2008), and Craft and Serovich (2005)found similar rates, with 45.1% of men in same-sex relationshipsreporting physical IPV victimization and 39.2% reporting perpe-tration. Although discrepancies appear to be a result of the differ-entformsofIPVbeingmeasuredandsomeresearchers’tendenciesto aggregate multiple forms of IPV when reporting rates, themeasures used can also influence rates. For instance, includingmilder forms of violence in IPV perpetration and victimizationscales can lead to higher rates of reported violence. Specifically,Miller, Greene, Causby, White, and Lockhart (2001) found that46.1% of the lesbians in their study reported some form of mod-erate physical IPV, whereas 14.1% reported severe physical IPV.As shown above, the gaping discrepancy in rates of IPV isattributable to variability in how IPV is defined (IPV victimizationand/or perpetration; physical, sexual, psychological, and/or stalk-ingIPV;lifetime,currentrelationship,lastyear,orsomeothertimeframe) and measured (standardized measurement, most commonlythe Conflict Tactics Scale Revised [Straus et al., 1996], or itemscreated for the individual study by researchers) as well as thesample used (e.g., demographic make-up, national vs. conveniencesample, clinical vs. community sample). Not surprising, the high-est rates of IPV are documented when the measures and definitionsused by researchers are more inclusive and include a longer timeframe. The highest rates of IPV victimization are also documentedin samples evidencing higher levels of IPV risk factors (e.g.,clinical and criminal justice system samples).IPV estimates ranging from 1% to more than 97% tell usextremely little about the scope of the problem. Consistent withother reviews (e.g., Finkelhor, 2011), herein we draw upon themost recent, nationally representative epidemiological data to pro-vide what we consider to be the most reliable and valid estimatesof IPV among LGB individuals, and how these estimates vary asa function of sexual orientation and gender. The CDC releasedsome of the most recent data from the National Intimate Partnerand Sexual Violence Survey, which documented that lifetimeprevalence rates of IPV (inclusive of physical, sexual, stalkingvictimization, but not psychological victimization) occurred atsimilar to higher rates among self-identified LGB adults (bisexualwomen: 61.1%; lesbian women: 43.8%; bisexual men: 37.3%; gaymen: 26.0%) than heterosexual adults (women: 35.0%; men:29.0%)(Walters,Chen,B lesbian women: 29.4%; gaymen: 16.4%) than heterosexual adults (women: 23.6%; men:13.9%). The findings reported by Walters et al. (2013) are some-what consistent with Messinger’s (2011) analysis of the NationalViolence Against Women Survey, in which Messinger docu-mented that means for all forms of IPV victimization (inclusive ofphysical, psychological, and sexual) were greater for LGB indi-viduals than heterosexual individuals. Messinger also documentedthat sexual minority women were most likely to be victims ofsexual IPV, followed by heterosexual women, sexual minoritymen, and heterosexual men. Further, bisexual individuals weremore likely to be victimized than all other groups, and bisexualwomen were more likely to be victimized than bisexual men for allforms of IPV, except psychological IPV.Data from the National Longitudinal Study of AdolescentHealth provide information on IPV among adolescents and youngadults as a function of gender and sexual orientation (Halpern,Young, Waller, Martin, & Kupper, 2004; Renner & Whitney,2010). Using Wave II, Halpern et al. (2004) found that 24% ofadolescents who were in same-sex relationships during the past 18months reported physical and/or psychological IPV victimization.Girls in same-sex relationships reported higher rates of physical

Thomas K.A., Goodman L., Putnins S.

A primary aim of mainstream domestic violence (DV) programs is to help survivors and their children achieve safety from intimate partner violence. That goal, however, is neither simple nor straightforward. Instead, research demonstrates that the very actions survivors take to achieve safety may trigger a wide range of negative consequences. Missing from this research, however, is a focus on survivors' own perception, evaluation, and expectation of the costs surrounding their safety-seeking efforts. Using a mixed-methods design, this study explored safety-related trade-offs among a convenience sample of 301 female survivors seeking DV services across 3 states in the Northeast region of the United States. Quantitative findings demonstrate that 62% of participants reported having to give up too much to keep safe, 55% reported that safety led to new problems in other domains for survivors and their loved ones, and 50% reported that these problems were often unexpected. Qualitative findings illuminated the categories of loss participants experienced as they worked toward safety, as well as the actions participants would have taken had they anticipated these losses. Findings suggest that an emphasis on safety over other needs-common in a human services landscape composed of multiple narrowly defined service silos-can force survivors into a zero-sum trap of painful and detrimental trade-offs.

Lim G., Lusby S., Carman M., Bourne A.

LGBTQ victim-survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) encounter numerous obstacles to accessing professionalized support, including internal factors that engender reluctance to engage in professionalized services. This gap in knowledge constitutes a limiting factor to the uptake of these services, even when significant effort has been made to accommodate these individuals. Semi-structured life history interviews were conducted with ( N  = 30) LGBTQ victim-survivors aged 19–79 years with recent (<2 years) and/or ongoing IPV experiences. These factors functionally curtailed access to appropriate support, even when available. The implementation of inclusive services must be attentive to and address affective barriers encountered by LGBTQ victim-survivors

Huster S., Xavier Hall C.D., Signorelli M.C., Evans D.P.

We present the first systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on intimate partner violence (IPV) among LGBTQ+ adults in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Of 1,234 articles, 22 met inclusion criteria, and data were extracted for 4 key research areas: prevalence, measurement, risk and protective factors, and interventions. LGBTQ+ adults in LAC experience IPV at similar or higher rates than those documented among cisgender heterosexuals, with estimates ranging from 0.4% to 91.4%. Inconsistencies in estimates may be due to non-standardized measures and subpopulation variability. The broad variability across subgroups demonstrates the need for more standardized measurement of IPV for these populations. Furthermore, this review identified key risk factors for IPV among LGBTQ+ people including alcohol use, perceived/experienced discrimination, transactional sex, and childhood/adolescent experiences of violence. Protective factors and interventions are not well understood in this context, as there was little to no data. The research on IPV among LGBTQ+ adults in LAC is limited, but this review suggests an increase in research in recent years. However, research has primarily focused on men who have sex with men and transgender women. Studies focusing on bisexual populations, lesbians, transgender men, intersex, and other sexual gender minority populations are needed. The high prevalence of IPV among LGBTQ+ individuals in LAC, inconsistency in definitions and measures, unique risk factors, and lack of interventions found in this review demonstrate the need for further IPV research among LGBTQ+ populations, and standardization of epidemiological methods to measure IPV and its effects.

Silveira A.P., de Morais N.A.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health issue that harms both mental and physical health. Sexual and gender minority individuals are more vulnerable to this type of violence due to a history of marginalization, discrimination, and social stigma, which exacerbate the risks and barriers to seeking help. This study aims to map the literature for identifying factors linked to IPV in the LGBTQ + community. A Scope review was conducted by searching databases (Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo, Scielo, and Pepsic). A total of 143 articles met the final inclusion criteria. Through thematic analysis, three main themes emerged: “Characteristics of Articles on IPV among LGBTQ + Individuals,” “Presentation and Specifics of IPV among LGBTQ + Individuals,” and “Risk and Protective Factors for Different Types of IPV among LGBTQ + Individuals.” Results revealed a prevalence of US-based psychology research, with a focus on Western samples, limiting generalizability. Disproportionate rates of IPV were found among transgender and non-binary individuals, as well as bisexual individuals. Concealing minority identity and lack of professional training hindered identification and help-seeking. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the disproportionate risk of IPV in LGBTQ + populations as more intersectional research and expanded clinical guidelines are needed. Specific areas for future research include the impact of cultural differences on violence experiences and the development of targeted interventions for non-Western sexual and gender minority populations. Despite limitations, this scoping review provides valuable insights. By influencing existing clinical practices, this study underscores the importance of tailored support and comprehensive training for healthcare providers.

Correll-King W.M., Crifasi C., Gamarel K.E.

Abstract Background Firearms-related health sciences research has documented disparities in fatal and nonfatal firearm injury impacting populations in the United States defined by race and ethnicity, age, gender, and geography. Recent reports from research and advocacy organizations have highlighted a need for this research to include sexual and gender minority (ie, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer [LGBTQ+]) populations to guide public health efforts to prevent homicide, suicide, and injury. Purpose The current review examines and summarizes existing research related to firearms and LGBTQ+ populations in the United States. Methods A search of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, LGBT Life, and Scopus was conducted in May 2024 using search strings related to LGBTQ+ populations, firearms, and suicide. Articles were included in this review if they were peer-reviewed, empirical studies assessing any construct related to firearms among LGBTQ+ people in the United States. Results Ultimately, 35 studies were included. Constructs examined in included studies were suicide (n = 6), homicide (n = 4), responses to the Pulse nightclub shooting (n = 9), nonfatal interpersonal violence (n = 4), and firearm access and ownership (n = 12). Conclusions Findings identified substantial gaps in the literature, underscoring an urgent need for LGBTQ+ health researchers and firearm injury prevention researchers to collaboratively extend and improve the evidence base on firearms among LGBTQ+ populations. Key recommendations include improving Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity data collection in firearms research, collecting original data to address LGBTQ+-specific and LGBTQ+-inclusive research questions regarding firearms, broadening the scope of firearms constructs assessed among LGTBQ+ populations, and using intersectionality to guide future research.

MacGregor J.C., Burd C., Ogunpitan Y.A., Hoffer E., Canie J., Naeemzadah N., Wathen C.N.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a widespread social and health problem disproportionately burdening women and, we are learning, gender and sexual minority (GSM) people, who are under-represented in research. The measurement and reporting of gender and sexual orientation in health and social science research are also inadequate. We conducted a focused mapping review and synthesis to examine the inclusion of GSM people, and the reporting of gender identity and sexual orientation, in Canadian IPV research. Using database searches, hand-searches (November 2022), and citation chaining (April/May 2023), we identified eligible articles that (1) were published in English or French in peer-reviewed journals from 2020 to 2022, (2) reported research involving at least some Canadian IPV survivors and/or perpetrators, and (3) had at least one Canada-affiliated author. The 150 included articles contribute significantly to the IPV literature but have shortcomings. Most articles inadequately reported gender identity and sexual orientation; among articles reporting, most only included cisgender heterosexual participants. Some articles conflated sex and gender, used outdated terminology, or used language that invisibilized GSM people. While research focused on heterosexual women (and men) is needed, exclusionary research practices can further marginalize GSM people. Given such research practices can impede the development of equity-oriented policies for these groups, we provide recommendations for researchers to improve inclusion and reporting. Gatekeepers such as ethics review board members and funders should strive to uphold these standards, including developing their own research and reporting policies.

Carr A.

AbstractThis twenty‐fifth anniversary review updates previous similar papers published in JFT in 2000, 2009, 2014 and 2019. It presents evidence from meta‐analyses, systematic reviews and controlled trials for the effectiveness of couple therapy and systemic interventions for adults with a range or relationship and mental physical health problems. The evidence supports the effectiveness of systemic interventions, either alone or as part of multimodal programmes, for relationship distress, psychosexual problems, intimate partner violence, anxiety and mood disorders, alcohol problems, schizophrenia and adjustment to chronic physical illness. Systemic interventions are as effective as evidenced‐based individual psychotherapeutic interventions for all of these problems, and more effective than individual therapy for some, including for relationship distress, situational intimate partner violence and delaying relapse in schizophrenia.

White A.

Examining the risks men face with their health reveal serious issues of inequity, both between men and women and between men themselves, depending on a raft of intersectional and geo-political factors. This chapter outlines the complexity of men's lives and the health challenges they experience, covering topics such as their high levels of premature death, masculinity and male socialization, and intersectionality. Specific health concerns will also be explored: cancer, cardiac health, communicable disease, accidents and injury, mental and emotional health, sexual and reproductive health (and rights) and the issue of violence. Activity in this growing field is also explored.

Alfandari R., Taylor B.J., Scott R.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a widespread social, public health, and human rights problem. Empirical investigation of IPV risk factors can promote evidence-based assessment tools and effective prevention and intervention. This overview is a pioneering synthesis of systematic reviews (SRs) of IPV risk factors. Systematic searches for SRs in English reporting a meta-analysis of IPV risk factors in adult heterosexual, non-casual relationships published between January 2011 and June 2021 were conducted in four bibliographic databases: Medline via EBSCO, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, and APA PsycInfo. This search strategy identified 1,027 unique records. Supplementary manual search methods were completed in July 2023. Overall, 17 SRs utilizing a meta-analytic approach to investigate IPV risk factors published between 2012 and 2022 were included in the overview. Risk factors were organized into five key categories: demographic, individual, family of origin, relationship, and social. Overall, 73 unique risk factors relating to perpetrators and 61 relating to victims were identified in the SRs. Just 50 of the 119 coefficients relating to IPV perpetration were reported, by any SR, as statistically significant and of moderate or strong predictive power; and 39 of these 50 factors related to previous IPV. Only 26 of the 147 coefficients relating to IPV victimization were both statistically significant and of moderate or strong predictive power, the majority of which (15) were in the relationship violence grouping of risk factors. The evidence suggests a randomness to IPV. This body of evidence provides some limited direction for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers.

Kurbatfinski S., Letourneau N., Marshall S., McBride D., Novick J., Griggs K., Perrotta A., Daye M., McManus C., Nixon K.

BackgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV), referring to different forms of violence or abuse between two or more intimate partners, negatively impacts physical and mental health, performance in various settings, and familial functioning, leading to long-term adverse outcomes. Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals tend to experience similar or greater frequencies of IPV compared to their cisheterosexual counterparts. Stigma and discrimination toward sexual and gender diversity can lead to myths and misconceptions about relationship dynamics among SGM individuals, which can contribute to IPV occurrence within the community. This study sought to: (1) develop a compendium of myths and misconceptions that SGM individuals exposed to IPV and relevant service providers shared they encountered; (2) describe the impacts of these myths and misconceptions on SGM individuals experiencing IPV; and (3) make recommendations to address these myths and misconceptions.MethodsThis qualitative study used data from a larger project focused on SGM IPV where SGM individuals who experienced IPV (n = 18) and service providers who supported SGM individuals experiencing IPV (n = 8) were interviewed using semi-structured formats. Thematic content analysis and inductive approaches were used to identify and organize findings into themes and subcategories.FindingsFive major themes related to SGM IPV myths and misconceptions were identified, touching on aspects including, but not limited to, SGM IPV prevalence, prescribed gender roles and expectations, and societal factors. Impacts and recommendations are also discussed.SignificanceThis appears to be the very first in-depth study describing myths and misconceptions that SGM individuals and relevant service providers have encountered in regard to SGM IPV, helping to promote understanding of SGM intimate partner relationships with particular relevance to public health and social services policies.

Sabuncu B.C., Signorelli M.C., Evans D.P., Millender E., Murgor J., Lane B., Okantey B., Hall C.X.

Safety planning is a tool to minimize the safety concerns of people experiencing violence, predominantly women and within the context of intimate partner violence (IPV). This systematic review aims to examine the state of safety planning and provide an overview of the effectiveness and perceived impact of digital, in-person and hybrid safety planning interventions. PRISMA guidelines were used. Reports of primary qualitative or quantitative research assessing any interpersonal violence outcome for adults (exclusively ≥ 18 years old) experiencing violence were included if conducted between 2012 and 2022. Searches occurred between October and December 2022. Spanish and Portuguese sources were derived from SciElo, French sources from OpenEdition, and English sources from MedLine, PsychINFO, and Academic Search Complete. Risk of bias was assessed. Data were screened by 6 investigators and extracted by 2. Of the 1,091 appraised studies, 15 were deemed suitable. All interventions centered on IPV, and none addressed other forms of interpersonal violence. Included studies were in English. Studies examined numerous outcomes with inconsistent findings. All hybrid interventions were effective (n = 3). Safety planning can lead to amelioration in multiple domains for IPV survivors. Studies including safety planning in their control conditions might report inaccurate conclusions. IPV research would benefit from expanding study populations to include underserved populations. Hybrid interventions with populations experiencing comorbid conditions offer promise. No clinical trials assessing the efficacy of safety planning interventions for other forms of interpersonal violence were identified. Safety planning regarding other forms of interpersonal violence is in its nascence. (250 words).

Davidson C.A., Mantler T., Jackson K.T.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive public health issue that affects all Canadians, including Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis); however, it is well-understood that GBV disproportionately affects certain social groups. An estimated one million Canadians aged 15 and older identify with a sexual orientation other than heterosexual, and approximately 1 in 300 people identify as transgender or non-binary. In Canada, violence rooted in biphobia, homophobia, transphobia, and queerphobia results in disproportionately high levels of GBV experienced by Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning), intersex, and other individuals who identify outside of cisgender, heterosexual norms (2SLGBTQI+ people). The health impacts of GBV experienced by people who identify outside of gender and sexuality norms are profound, spanning mental and physical dimensions across the life course. This article employs an anti-oppression queer framework to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and understandings of GBV in Canada concerning 2SLGBTQI+ people, emphasizing (1) the disproportionate risk of GBV faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities within the context of Canadian social politics; (2) key links between the experiences of GBV among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada and associated health disparities; (3) current orientations to GBV policy, practice, and research, with an emphasis on contemporary, inclusive paradigms that shape equity-oriented health and social services; and (4) future directions aimed at eradicating GBV and addressing health inequities among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada. While much work remains to be done, the expansion of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in GBV prevention within the past five years points to a promising future.

Muñoz-Fernández N., Sánchez-Jiménez V.

McGray T.L., Hutton B., Dodge B., Koss M.P.

Brunton R., Shin M.

Rodrigues M., Neaman A., Ditzer J., Talmon A.

AbstractThe aim of this review was to investigate the mental and physical health outcomes of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization among sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals. This study addressed an existing gap in research concerning IPV outcomes among SGM populations. A systematic review was conducted through PubMed, APA PsycInfo, APA PsycNet, and manual searches on Google Scholar using specific keywords. Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed publications and quantitative studies specifically assessing the impacts of IPV among SGM individuals. A total of 35 studies meeting these criteria were included in the review. Our review showed significant associations between IPV victimization and adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and attempts, substance use, and risky sexual behaviors among SGM individuals. IPV victimization poses mental and physical health risks for SGM populations. Our findings highlight the need for comprehensive, tailored intervention and prevention efforts that consider the diverse needs of individuals with multiple minoritized identities in the context of IPV victimization.