Overcoming Abuse: A Phenomenological Investigation Of The Journey To Recovery From Past Intimate Partner Violence

Keywords

abuse; domestic violence; healing; intimate partner violence; recovery

Abstract

To date, minimal research has focused on the recovery process for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study utilized a phenomenological methodology to understand the lived experiences of survivors of IPV (N = 123) who had overcome abusive relationships and created violence-free and meaningful lives. The researchers aimed to understand key factors involved in their recovery processes. Results indicated two main processes in the IPV recovery process: intrapersonal processes and interpersonal processes. Intrapersonal processes included (a) regaining and recreating one’s identity, (b) embracing the freedom and power to direct one’s own life, (c) healing from the mental and physical health symptoms of the abuse, (d) fostering acceptance and forgiveness with self and abuser, (e) education and examination of abusive relationships, (f) determining whether and how to enter new intimate relationships, and (g) acknowledging the long-term process of overcoming abuse. Interpersonal processes included themes of (a) building positive social support and relationships and (b) using ones’ experiences with abuse to help others. Results of the present study are presented, and implications for practitioners are discussed.

Publication Date

11-1-2017

Publication Title

Journal of Interpersonal Violence

Volume

32

Issue

22

Number of Pages

3373-3401

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260515599161

Socpus ID

85031787983 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85031787983

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