Bridging Gaps in Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault Research: Dyadic Insights, Strangulation, and Trauma-Informed Healthcare

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

Significant gaps remain in our understanding of intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual assault trauma, necessitating innovative research to address emerging trends and inform both prevention strategies and survivor care. This thematic panel explores IPV through a dyadic lens, highlighting the interplay between partners during the transition to parenthood acknowledging the duality of trauma. It also examines the increasing phenomenon of strangulation in consensual sexual encounters, raising critical questions about resulting trauma, health consequences, and forensic implications. Additionally, the panel underscores the urgent need for trauma-informed care (TIC) in overlooked healthcare specialties, specifically anesthesiology and dentistry, where survivors may face heightened vulnerability. By integrating these perspectives, this session aims to advance interdisciplinary approaches to IPV and sexual assault, fostering more effective survivor-centered care and policy development.

Sub Unit

• Area IV. Correlates of Crime / 27. Trauma and Mental Health

Individual Presentations

• Dyadic Approaches to Intimate Partner Violence during the Transition to Parenthood - Stephanie St. Clair, University of Utah; Julie L. Valentine, University of Utah

• The Intersection and Implications of Strangulation in Consensual Sexual Encounters and Sexual Assault Cases - Alyssa Lark, University of Utah; Julie L. Valentine, University of Utah

• Implementation of Trauma-Informed Care in Dentistry: Time for Change - Sherry Huang, University of Utah; Julie L. Valentine, University of Utah; Brenda L. Heaton, University of Utah

• Applying Trauma-Informed Care in Anesthesiology Procedures for Survivors of Sexual Assault - Luke Johnson, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine; Julie L. Valentine, University of Utah; Matthew H. Johnson, Mountain West Anesthesia

Discussant

• Julie L. Valentine, University of Utah