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Patterns and Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence Committed by Returning Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

NCJ Number
233351
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 25 Issue: 8 Dated: November 2010 Pages: 737-743
Author(s)
Erin P. Finley; Monty Baker; Mary Jo Pugh; Alan Peterson
Date Published
November 2010
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the occurance of intimate partner violence between male veterans diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their female partners.
Abstract
Data from a recent mixed-methods study conducted among Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) raise important questions regarding the occurrence of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in this population. Three case studies illustrate two main findings. First, Veterans and family members participating in the study described three patterns of partner violenceviolence committed in anger; dissociative violence; and parasomniac/hypnopompic violencesuggesting that distinct patterns of IPV may emerge in relation to PTSD symptoms. Second, participants' descriptions suggest that common ideas about PTSD and war-related suffering can play an important role in influencing how Veterans and their partners respond to episodes of partner violence. It is important for those providing care to PTSD-diagnosed Veterans and their partners to understand when and how partner violence may occur, and how both parties may perceive and respond to it, in order to aid in developing appropriate plans for coping and safety-seeking. Table and references (Published Abstract)