Understanding Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration Involving the Deaf Population

Area of Science:

• Social Science
• Public Health
• Criminology

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) research has expanded, yet data from deaf perpetrators is lacking.
• Understanding the unique social contexts of IPV perpetration within the deaf community is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the social context of IPV perpetration among deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals.
• To identify IPV triggers, types of abuse, and challenges faced by deaf perpetrators.

Main Methods:

• Community-based participatory research using semi-structured interviews via video relay.
• Inclusion of deaf investigators and concept mapping for data analysis.
• Constant comparison method to identify recurring themes.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include intergenerational violence, information deficits, communication barriers leading to frustration, and help-seeking difficulties.
• Abuse types, injuries, and interactions with criminal justice and medical systems were documented.
• Findings reveal unique challenges specific to the deaf population.

Conclusions:

• Universal IPV interventions may not adequately serve the deaf population due to specific communication and social factors.
• Recommendations include diversifying screening methods and tailoring interventions for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
• Further research is essential to address IPV within diverse deaf communities.