1. The Intersection of Transphobia, Human Rights, and Transgender Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

Unlike with cisgender people, intimate partner violence (IPV) manifests in distinct ways with transgender people. Importantly, the uniqueness of IPV among transgender people is largely due to two interrelated and pervasive norms in society: cisnormativity and transphobia. Cisnormativity and transphobia motivate and enable many abusers to shame and control their transgender partners. It also can hinder the ability of transgender people in abusive relationships to seek help. This introductory chapter reviews research on the prevalence and impact of transgender intimate partner violence (T-IPV). It examines the links between IPV and the restriction of transgender human rights. The chapter presents a case study that illustrates discrimination is part of the DNA of T-IPV, whether motivating abusers, enabling unique tactics to control survivors, or blocking passage to escape. Thus, to fully understand T-IPV, it is important to consider the extent of societal transphobia and its links with relationship abuse. Finally, the chapter previews the thematic sections and chapters ahead. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)