Intimate Partner Violence Transcending Socioeconomic Class

Since colonial times, a woman’s job was thought to be domestic in nature. In contrast, her husband’s work, regardless of nature, was viewed as an endeavor that garnered wealth for the family. Abusive intimate partners may use violence, threats, and intimidation to control their partners. However, there is another control mechanism use by perpetrators of abuse. Financial control can rob a victim of their ability to escape abuse. The need for food, shelter, and healthcare are important necessities for a victim or her children. Thus, financial inequity may keep a victim with their abuser or cause them to return if the minimum necessities for life cannot be met (without them).