Gender differences in unidirectional and bidirectional intimate partner violence in addictions

Area of Science:

• Addiction Research
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) characteristics in individuals with addiction are understudied.
• Understanding specific IPV profiles in this population can inform targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine gender differences in unidirectional and bidirectional IPV among patients undergoing drug addiction treatment.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 122 patients (91 male, 31 female) in addiction treatment.
• Collected self-reported data on violent behaviors, sociodemographics, distorted thoughts, impulsiveness, and anger.

Main Results:

• 91% reported IPV experience.
• Bidirectional IPV was more common in women (83.9%) than men (56.1%).
• Unidirectional (perpetration-only) IPV was more common in men (34.1%) than women (12.9%).
• Bidirectional IPV correlated with higher impulsiveness, anger, and distorted thoughts.

Conclusions:

• Bidirectional IPV is prevalent in addiction treatment seekers, particularly women.
• Unidirectional IPV (perpetration) is more common in men.
• Findings underscore the importance of addressing IPV in addiction treatment settings.