Abstract
ObjectiveEven if the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and intimate partner violence (IPV) has already been established, there are no sufficient studies examining the relationships between these factors and attachment representations, specifically attachment disorganization. Thus, this study aimed to explore, in a sample of women who experienced IPV (a) the presence of interpersonal adversities during childhood, and (b) attachment representations, with a particular focus on disorganization.MethodsWomen’s representations of attachment experiences were investigated through the Adult Attachment Interview, while the presence of various forms of interpersonal adversities during childhood was assessed using the Complex Trauma Questionnaire. The results of the IPV group (n = 98) were compared with those of women with no history of IPV (control group, n = 81).ResultsWomen in the IPV group showed higher values of multiple forms of adverse experiences within their caregiving system. They presented significantly higher rates of disorganized states of mind regarding attachment, indicative of a lack of resolution regarding traumatic experiences, and of disorganized working models resulting from complex trauma. Our results highlighted that, more than the presence of traumatic experiences, it is their irresolution – reflected in the disorganized states of mind regarding attachment at the Adult Attachment Interview – to be a significant predictor of IPV.ConclusionThese results suggest underline the significance of offering a trauma- and attachment-informed therapy to those who experience IPV. Such results could help both clinicians and researchers in formulating clearer guidelines for IPV interventions.
Highlights
Intimate partner violence (IPV) encompasses abusive acts that cause pain or injury, such as physical or sexual violence, and an array of behaviors designed to control or intimidate, such as psychological aggressions and stalking
Violence may be initiated by women, mutual within the couple, or found in same-sex relationships (Bates, 2016; Rollè et al, 2018), about 85% of all who experience IPV are women (Rennison and Welchans, 2000)
IPV is a complex and stratified phenomenon that requires an articulated reading. It has been explained in terms of imbalanced dynamics of power and control between genders or of poverty, disempowerment, and social isolation (McCarthy et al, 2018)
Summary
Even if the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and intimate partner violence (IPV) has already been established, there are no sufficient studies examining the relationships between these factors and attachment representations, attachment disorganization. This study aimed to explore, in a sample of women who experienced IPV (a) the presence of interpersonal adversities during childhood, and (b) attachment representations, with a particular focus on disorganization
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