PhD thesis (University of Canterbury)

There has been substantial work concerning intimate partner violence (IPV) around the world (Abrahams, 2010; Garcia-Moreno & Stockl, 2013; Krug et al, 2002; WHO, 2005) and in New Zealand (Crichton-Hill, 2010a;
Crichton-Hill, Coker & Taylor, 2010b; Fanslow, 2004; Fanslow & Gulliver, 2015; Fanslow & Robinson, 2010; Morgan, Coombes, Te Hiwi & McGray, 2007; Murphy, 2002); and there is an increasing body of literature about the process of leaving violent intimate relationships. Understanding the nature of the moving away process is important to the
development of successful systems of support for women and their
families.

In this respect, however, there is a gap in the literature. Studies have not examined the combination of factors, both individual and structural, that influence the leaving process. This research thesis combines investigation of the following: factors that prompt women to move away from situations
of intimate partner violence; the process of moving away; the strategies used to move away; and the individual and structural factors that supported women’s move toward safety from IPV. Eleven women were interviewed about their moving away journey and each woman shared her unique story of this process. The thesis employed a narrative thematic analysis to understand the women’s experiences of ‘moving away from intimate partner violence’. The findings reveal a range of overarching themes related to the moving away from violence process. Furthermore, the study found that each woman’s process of leaving violent relationships was strongly influenced by intersecting factors comprising personal,
relationship and structural elements.
The study adds valuable insight to social work practice with women in violent relationships by extending our knowledge of the complexities of the leaving process. A holistic response system for social work practice, taking into account these complexities, is developed from the thesis
findings. The holistic response system consists of four areas of work with women and advocates the need for practice responses that provide both short and long term support for the entirety of the moving away process.
Furthermore, the holistic response system includes both individual healing and empowerment approaches and advocacy components aimed at improving the way in which the system responds to women in violent
relationships. (Author's abstract). Record #6530