Examining the Differential Impact of Abuse Types on Leave Attempts Among Domestic Violence Survivors

• In Event: Lightning Talk: Key Issues in Power-Based Violence

Abstract

Domestic violence (DV) affects an estimated 10 million people annually in the United States and is associated with deleterious physical, social, and psychological outcomes. Survivors' decisions to leave abusive relationships and seek emergency shelter are complex, influenced by factors such as economic dependence, relationship investment (e.g., marriage, children), hope for partner change, and lack of social support. Less explored is whether the type of abuse (physical, sexual, psychological) predicts prior leave attempts. Women with histories of residing in a DV shelter (N=65; 58.46% White; Mage=36.23, SDage=10.10) completed an online survey assessing DV (Composite Abuse Scale Revised–Short Form) and past leave attempts in their most recent DV relationship. Three regression models predicting leave attempts were conducted; specific abuse behaviors within psychological, sexual, and physical abuse types were entered as predictors accounting for composite scores of other abuse types. The model including psychological/sexual composites and six specific physical abuse behaviors was positively associated with leave attempts (F(8, 52)=2.25, p=.038, R²=.257). Specifically, confinement was negatively associated with past leave attempts (β=-18.26, p=.002). Findings suggest that specific forms of abuse may differentially impact survivors’ help-seeking behaviors, with certain experiences, such as confinement, potentially deterring efforts to leave abusive relationships.

Authors

• Hannah Bess Sawyer, Auburn University

• Emily J. Lubin, Auburn University

• Hailie R. Suarez-Rivas, Auburn University

• Emma Lathan, Auburn University