A Systematic Review of Research on Intimate Partner Violence Among Bisexual Women

Abstract

Bisexual women are more vulnerable to intimate partner violence (IPV) than lesbian or heterosexual women; however, they are under-represented in IPV literature. This study used a systematic review approach, combining a content analyis and a literature review to examine the state of knowledge on bisexual women’s experiences of IPV. A literature search uncovered 36 articles published between 2000 and 2016 that explicitly included bisexual women. The authors conducted a content analysis to assess study characteristics. Findings from the analysis indicated most research was conducted using quantitative methodology. Studies tended to use White, adult samples with little bisexual representation. Themes uncovered in the content analyses guided the literature review. Emergent reviewed themes included prevalence rates of IPV and tactics, risk factors for perpetration and victimization, and help seeking and leaving processes. Findings were used to outline an agenda for future research, including the recognition of multiple marginalization among bisexual women.

Keywords:

• bisexuality
• content analysis
• domestic violence
• literature review
• victimization
• queer relationships

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Autumn M. Bermea

Autumn M. Bermea, MS is a PhD candidate and research fellow in the Family Science and Human Development department at Montclair State University. Her research interests include intimate partner violence (IPV) within the queer community. Specifically, she is interested in increasing inclusive service accessibility for queer survivors of IPV.

Brad van Eeden-Moorefield

Dr. Brad van Eeden-Moorefield is an associate professor and PhD program director in the Family Science and Human Development department at Montclair State University. His research interests include LGBT-headed families and the contextual effects on families and relationships (e.g., discrimination and policy).

Lyndal Khaw

Dr. Lyndal Khaw is an associate professor in the Family Science and Human Development department at Montclair State University. Her research interests include intimate partner violence (IPV); specifically, the leaving processes associated with IPV. She also has expertise in qualitative research methods.