Intimate Partner Violence, Military Personnel, Veterans, and Their Families

Abstract

Communities throughout the country are grappling with the aftermath of the protracted wars in Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom) and Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom) and how to serve military personnel, veterans, and their families effectively with sensitivity to the experiences they have had and the issues they face. This article begins with a discussion of bringing a contextual analysis to the understanding of intimate partner violence (IPV) and how IPV may or may not overlap with potential co‐occurring combat‐related conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder, and depression. Elements of risk and danger, especially in relationship to IPV, these co‐occurring conditions, and suicide are also addressed. Implications for family court personnel start with effective methods for screening and assessment within the framework of the larger contextual analysis. The article provides tips for family court personnel by addressing the larger context, applying effective screening/assessment strategies, and utilizing resources available within the military, Veterans' Health Administration, and community settings. Key Points for the Family Court Community Understand how the larger context in which intimate partner violence is embedded affects risk, danger, and treatment/intervention. Be able to discuss the intersection of intimate partner violence and co‐occurring combat‐related conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder, and depression and how to approach screening, assessment, and treatment/intervention. Understand the importance of screening and assessing for intimate partner violence and co‐occurring combat‐related conditions when making decisions in family court involving military and veteran families.