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Subtle or Covert Abuse Within Intimate Partner Relationships: A Scoping Review
Rosemary Parkinson1, Stephanie T Jong1, Sarah Hanson1
1University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.
Trauma, Violence & Abuse
|October 9, 2024
Summary
Subtle or covert abuse (SCA) in intimate relationships is under-researched, yet may be the most damaging form of abuse. Greater understanding is needed to help professionals recognize and address its significant impacts on victims.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant global health issue with severe mental and physical consequences.
- Subtle or covert abuse (SCA) within intimate relationships is increasingly acknowledged but lacks comprehensive definition and research.
- Limited understanding of SCA hinders recognition by therapists and effective client support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and synthesize existing literature on subtle or covert abuse (SCA) in adult intimate relationships.
- To clarify the concept of SCA to improve professional recognition and intervention.
- To explore the behaviors, impacts, theories, and recognition of SCA.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review was conducted, synthesizing findings from 19 primary research studies.
- Searches were performed across multiple academic databases including PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycArticles, Scopus, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, and EThOS.
- Descriptive content analysis was used to synthesize data under predefined headings.
Main Results:
- Identified and categorized various subtle or covert abuse behaviors.
- Documented the significant negative impacts of SCA on victims.
- Explored underlying theoretical frameworks explaining SCA.
- Highlighted challenges and strategies for professional recognition of SCA.
Conclusions:
- Subtle or covert abuse (SCA) may be the most damaging form of intimate partner violence.
- Further research is crucial to fully understand SCA's complexities and develop targeted interventions.
- Enhanced professional training is needed to improve the identification and management of SCA victims.
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