A Qualitative Study of Intimate Partner Violence From a Cognitive-Behavioral Perspective

There is growing interest in the application of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to intimate partner violence (IPV) as a companion or possibly preferred approach to the Duluth model. The literature includes descriptions of adaptions of cognitive-behavioral (CB) treatment to IPV and even some treatment outcome studies. Yet, these adaptions are not typically grounded in the empirical examination of IPV focusing on phenomena specifically relevant to CB theory. The aim of this qualitative inquiry was to examine IPV from a CB perspective to lay the foundation for related treatment and research. Twelve heterosexual victims residing in shelters completed structured audiotaped interviews focusing on CB phenomena, that is, the cognitions, behaviors, feelings, interactions, and conditions victims experienced before, during, and after an IPV incident. Transcripts were coded and analyzed to develop a comprehensive categorized list of discrete IPV phenomena over time. Among the findings relating to violent incidents was indication that despite the progression of abuse that compel couples uncontrollably toward a violent episode, partners often engage in numerous preventive actions that turn out to be ineffective. The findings are ultimately intended to lay the groundwork for an instrument that can more accurately and comprehensively measure IPV phenomena emphasizing CB core concepts. Such a tool could be of benefit to CB therapists and researchers seeking to understand, identify, and target IPV behaviors.