The Role of Weapons in Domestic Violence: What is a Weapon and Does Gender Matter?

• In Event: Victimization, Protection, and Prevention

Abstract

Research shows that the use of a weapon may increase the likelihood that charges will be laid in situations of domestic violence regardless of the gender of the accused. However, questions surrounding what constitutes a weapon and the gendered use of weapons have continued to be debated when discussing and comparing the violence of women and men in domestic violence situations. These are important avenues for research since the use of a weapon and type of weapon are taken into consideration by police when determining whether to lay a charge. The perceived role of a weapon in the violence may also impact convictions and sentences. This paper examines 319 incidents of domestic violence from a small, Ontario city from 2003 to 2009. Using a mixture of quantitative data and qualitative case narratives, this study will examine whether the gender of the accused determines threats and/or use of a weapon, the type of weapon used in domestic violence incidents, and whether weapons-related charges are laid.

Authors

• Julie Poon, University of Guelph

• Myrna Dawson, University of Guelph