Intimate Partner Violence Among Female Partners of Men with Substance Use Problems: An Exploratory Analysis of...

Substance use problems (SUP) extend beyond individuals, significantly impacting families, particularly women, who often assume caregiving roles. Research indicates that women with partners experiencing SUP face an elevated risk of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study examined the profile of female partners of men who sought support in a family programme for SUP in Brazil, focusing on the prevalence and characteristics of those who had experienced physical IPV from their current partner.

Records from 5,303 family members registered in the "Programme Recomeco Familia" between 2014 and 2018 were assessed. This was a free-of-charge service aimed at providing psychological support and guidance to family members of a relative with SUP.

Female partners of men with SUP represented 10.4% (N = 437) of female participants, of whom 46.2% reported physical IPV victimisation. Compared with non-victims, women experiencing IPV more frequently reported that discussions about substance use escalated into arguments and were less likely to report setting limits in their partners. Women whose partners used only illicit drugs were less likely to report IPV, whereas those whose partners had problems with alcohol (alone or combined with illicit drugs) or a history of justice system involvement faced a higher IPV risk.

Family substance use programmes must integrate responses to IPV including its assessment and responsive approaches tailored to the needs of the victims.