Coercive controlling behaviors in intimate partner violence in male same-sex relationships:A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Using mixed methods, we explored the role of coercive controlling behaviors in a high-risk sample of 126 men in violent same-sex relationships. Contrary to a prediction that separate factors of physical violence and coercive control might emerge, a simple principle components analysis supported that male same-sex relationship intimate partner violence (IPV) is essentially unidimensional. Qualitative narratives supported a single latent factor solution of violence, and that coercive controlling behaviors better detect IPV dynamics within the same violent encounters (i.e., weapon use), even when compared to profiles defined by physical violence. Narratives also highlighted gender-different tactics of coercion used, underscoring importance of context-based assessments.

Keywords:

• intimate partner violence
• male same-sex relationships
• coercive controlling behaviors

Note

Notes

1 IPV research on male same-sex relationships employs a variety of terms, including sexual minority, queer, gay, homosexual, bisexual, and men who have sex with men. For the purposes of this study, “male same-sex” will be used as an inclusive term to denote male-to-male intimate relationships.