A Grounded Theory Analysis of Control and Freedom in Intimate Relationships

Although coercive control has been studied in unhealthy relationships, all couples navigate some amount of control and freedom as they interact. Varied prevalence estimates and definitions of control suggest a need to better define the continuum of control in mild and extreme forms, including non-physically violent forms of control. The purpose of this qualitative study was to expand knowledge of control in relationships by examining the whole continuum of partners' experiences of control and freedom. Using constructivist grounded theory methods, data on control and freedom from 66 semi-structured interviews were analyzed to examine how partners describe control and freedom in their relationships. Findings highlighted nuanced forms of emotional abuse within the continuum of control and the value of openness and support in developing freedom. Clearer conceptions of milder and non-physical forms of control may aid clinicians in identifying elusive processes of control and helping partners support each other's freedom.