Are Abused Women’s Protective Actions Associated With Reduced Threats, Stalking, and Violence Perpetrated by Their Male Intimate Partners?

Abstract

Victims of intimate partner violence may take various actions to protect themselves from their partner. This research examined the association between abused women’s (N = 755) protective strategies at baseline and her partner’s threats, stalking, and moderate and severe violence 8 months later. Emergency domestic violence shelter and orders of protection significantly reduced subsequent abuse. Receiving medical treatment was associated with a significant increase in violence, and security devices (e.g., mace, changing locks) with an increase in stalking. Safety planning and other strategies had no statistical association with abuse at follow-up. Future research should continue to examine the efficacy of safety strategies.