Examining Men’s and Women’s Experiences of Bi-directional Aggression with an Intimate Partner of the Opposite Binary Sex

Bi-directional aggression involves mutual engagement in aggression by two individuals and has been documented to make up at least half of all instances of intimate partner aggression (IPA). However, despite its prevalent nature, bi-directional IPA has been largely under-researched compared to uni-directional IPA with one perpetrator. The aim of this thesis was to examine the experiences of men and women who have been in a bi-directionally aggressive relationship with an intimate partner of the opposite binary sex. The experiences of seven men and six women across Aotearoa New Zealand were explored in semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with a forensically trained interviewer. A qualitative research methodology was utilised to analyse these interviews individually using reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were identified that related to the men and women’s experiences of bi-directional IPA. These five themes encompassed: 1) Triggers for the Aggression; 2) Coercive Control; 3) Maintenance of the Aggression; 4) Trapped in the Aggressive Relationship; and,5) The Facets of Help-seeking. Collectively these findings add to the growing literature on IPA and more specifically bi-directional IPA among men and women. These findings communicate how maladaptive interpersonal dynamics, such as poor communication and acceptance of violence, allow instances of aggression to be maintained within the men’s and women’s bi-directionally abusive relationships. Together, the findings convey a strong need for early interventions focused on creating adaptive interpersonal schemas, coping strategies, and greater understanding of bi-directional IPA at both a personal and professional level.