New research challenges sexist perceptions about domestic abuse

A new study by the University of Portsmouth has questioned whether decisions about partner abuse are “rosy” for women.

Research reveals long-standing sexist views in close relationships partner violence and abuse (IPV/A) significantly impacts how victims and perpetrators are perceived in situations where both partners engage in violence. Gender-based views influence not only public opinion but also professional judgment in legal and judicial contexts, potentially leading to biased outcomes for men and women in violent relationships.

Historically, domestic violence It is understood as a crime committed predominantly by men. female victims-as a means of men’s control over female partners. However, current reviews indicate that violence by both partners is the most common form of IPV/A. Despite this, as the study emphasizes, traditional views persist.

It was published inside Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practicein a study online survey containing a story depicting an IPV/A incident between a fictional couple (Kelly and Mark) followed by 12 related questions. A total of 141 people from the public completed the task. During the follow-up phase, the research also facilitated a discussion with 11 trainee forensic psychologists who had seen the story.

The study found that while many participants acknowledged the bidirectional nature of the violent scenarios presented, gender biases It still influenced their decisions. Specifically, Mark was rarely labeled as the sole victim even when he was subjected to the majority of the abuse, and Kelly was rarely labeled as the perpetrator even when he perpetrated the majority of the violence.

Forensic Psychology Clinical Research and Practice Associate Professor Dr. Dominic Pearson says: “Many participants relied on familiar narratives around gender when assigning blame or determining who might be at greater risk. Our findings suggest that these biases are not just an issue of public perception, but also the perspectives of those entering the forensic and legal fields.” This is critical to how we train professionals and approach IPV/A assessments.”

The results of the study also showed significant differences in the perceived severity of injuries depending on gender. Even if the nature of the violence was the same, injuries to female victims were often considered more serious. This finding is consistent with social perceptions that associate femininity with vulnerability and masculinity with strength.

One participant said: “There is a tendency to perceive female violence as reactive or defensive, while we view male violence as more aggressive or dominant.” These views were also present among future forensic professionals; vocational training they may need to address these biases directly.

Dr. “The biases observed in this study are deeply ingrained,” Pearson explains. “Addressing these requires not only awareness but also active education that forces professionals to recognize and adapt to these sexist assumptions.”

The article says these findings underscore a critical need to include critical discussion of gendered constructs in both public education and professional training regarding IPV/A. Forensic experts play a crucial role in the legal outcome of domestic violence cases, and addressing inherent biases can lead to fairer, more balanced decisions.

Dr. Pearson adds: “Intimate partner violence is complex, and approaching it with rigid gender assumptions risks undermining the experiences and needs of victims. Recognizing and addressing biases in IPV/A assessments is essential to ensuring equal treatment for all.”

This research adds to the growing body of literature calling for a re-evaluation of gender-based assumptions in the understanding and treatment of IPV/A. By challenging these norms, the research hopes to inspire a shift towards more egalitarian, informed approaches that reflect the complex reality of relational violence.