Defining Bidirectional Violence in Intimate Relationships: A Scoping Review of Conceptual and Operational Challenges

Bidirectional Violence (BV) in intimate relationships has become an increasingly recognized yet inconsistently defined phenomenon. This conceptual fragmentation presents a significant challenge to research, clinical practice, and policy development. This scoping review, conducted according to the PRISMA and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, aimed to map how BV has been conceptually defined and operationalized in empirical and theoretical studies. A total of 82 peer-reviewed articles, published between 1995 and January 2025, were analyzed, encompassing a range of disciplines and methodologies. Findings revealed considerable heterogeneity in terminology, ranging from typological approaches (Johnson, 1995) to specific concepts like "bidirectional violence," "mutual violence," "reciprocal violence," and "victim-perpetrator overlap," as well as the lack of consensus in their definitions and usage. Based on this evidence, we propose an integrative, minimal definition of BV, informed by systemic perspectives, which highlights the relevance of relational dynamics, motivational asymmetry, and escalation patterns for understanding violence involving both partners. The review highlights the urgent need for conceptual clarity and standardized operational frameworks to guide research, improve clinical assessment, and support more effective policy responses to intimate partner violence involving both partners.