A systematic literature review of intimate partner violence victims’ experiences

Purpose: The main aim of this systematic review is to investigate the victimisation experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV), with a view to informing further research into this area. This will be done from an inclusive perspective, where no victim group will be excluded. To achieve this, the review will include research into male, female and transgender victims from both same-sex and opposite-sex relationships, where available. Background: IPV is a subject which has received increasing attention in recent years (Randle & Graham, 2011), however much of the research exploring victimisation around IPV has focused on female victims (Ard & Makadon, 2011). Research into male or transgender victims or victims in same-sex relationships is particularly limited and there is little known about the characteristics of IPV in these relationships (Stanley, Bartholomew, Taylor, Oram & Landolt, 2006). This paucity of research on LGBT victims, and male victims, in comparison to female victims is worrying as research informs how much support is available. Methods: A systematic literature review will be conducted on IPV victim’s experiences. All victim groups will be included within this review regardless of gender or relationship type. This will synthesise the information already available in order to inform further research. Conclusions: Findings will be discussed in line with current research and policy. Specifically implications around current gendered service provision will be discussed with a view to recommending a more inclusive approach to supporting all victims of IPV