Men’s and Women’s Experience of IPV Part II: A Review of New Developments in Comparative Studies in Clinical Populations

Abstract

The present paper reviews literature on gender differences in the perpetration, motivation, and impact of intimate partner violence (IPV) in clinical samples published between 2002 and 2013 to update and extend a previous review by Hamberger (Violence & Victims, 20, 131–151, 2005). Results showed that women are likely to incur more costs related to abuse. Men arrested for IPV have more extensive criminal histories and higher recidivism rates than women. When identified as suspects, men and women are equally likely to be arrested, taking into account other relevant factors. Women are less likely to be prosecuted and more likely to be granted restraining orders at lower levels of violence. Female perpetrators have higher levels of psychopathology except for antisocial personality traits. Findings regarding drug and alcohol use are as yet conflicting; although there are gender differences, it is difficult to generalize from the present findings. Research and clinical implications are discussed.