A Template Analysis of Intimate Partner Violence Survivors’ Experiences of Animal Maltreatment: Implications for Safety Planning and Intervention

Authors

Elizabeth A. Collins, Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Anna M. Cody, Virginia Commonwealth University
Shelby Elaine McDonald, Virginia Commonwealth University
Nicole Nicotera, University of Denver
Frank R. Ascione, University of Denver
James Herbert Williams, University of Denver

Document Type

Article

Original Publication Date

2017

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Violence Against Women

Volume

24

Issue

4

First Page

452

Last Page

476

DOI of Original Publication

https://doi.org/10.1177/1077801217697266

Date of Submission

May 2018

Abstract

This study explores the intersection of intimate partner violence (IPV) and animal cruelty in an ethnically diverse sample of 103 pet-owning IPV survivors recruited from community-based domestic violence programs. Template analysis revealed five themes: (a) Animal Maltreatment by Partner as a Tactic of Coercive Power and Control, (b) Animal Maltreatment by Partner as Discipline or Punishment of Pet, (c) Animal Maltreatment by Children, (d) Emotional and Psychological Impact of Animal Maltreatment Exposure, and (e) Pets as an Obstacle to Effective Safety Planning. Results demonstrate the potential impact of animal maltreatment exposure on women and child IPV survivors’ health and safety.

Is Part Of

VCU Social Work Publications