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Survivors' Perspectives on Positive Life Changes and Growth After Intimate Partner Abuse: Testing Connections With
Tamara L Newton1, Yvette Z Szabo1, Ashlee Warnecke1
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
Violence Against Women
|July 8, 2025
Summary
Women reported significant positive life changes and personal growth after intimate partner abuse (IPA), including self-improvement and enhanced independence, despite no direct link to abuse severity. This research explores resilience and recovery post-divorce.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminology
Background:
- Intimate partner abuse (IPA) often leads to trauma and negative outcomes.
- However, some individuals experience positive life changes and personal growth post-abuse.
- Coercive controlling violence is a specific form of IPA with unique impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore positive life changes and perceived growth in women following intimate partner abuse (IPA).
- To identify domains of positive change and growth.
- To examine associations between IPA severity and reported positive outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative measures.
- Women responded to open-ended questions about post-divorce changes and growth.
- Quantitative measures assessed exposure to direct assault and dominance/isolation abuse.
Main Results:
- Common positive changes included self-improvement, relationship enhancement, and internal self-development.
- Perceived growth was frequently reported in self-concept and independence.
- An unexpected positive change was improved financial situation.
- No significant associations were found between IPA measures and the extent of positive changes or growth.
Conclusions:
- Women can experience substantial positive life changes and personal growth after intimate partner abuse (IPA).
- Domains of growth include self-concept and independence, with unexpected benefits like financial improvement.
- Further research is needed to understand the nuances of recovery and resilience in IPA survivors.
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