Male Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Homicide: A General Strain Theory Explanation

Abstract

Despite a growing body of knowledge, there is still debate as to whether men who perpetrate lethal and non-lethal intimate partner violence display similar characteristics as men who are violent more generally. Calls have been made for research to examine which, if any, contexts, factors and situations are unique to male-perpetrated intimate partner homicide (IPH) compared to other types of homicide. The current research addresses this empirical question. Theoretically, this research is guided by general strain theory (GST; Agnew, 1992). According to GST, experiences of strain increase the likelihood of an individual engaging in criminal behaviour. This link between strain and crime is mediated by negative emotions and moderated by factors such as personal characteristics, peer associations and access to social support. The current research proposes that GST extends the current theoretical landscape of male-perpetrated IPH in three ways: by focusing attention on the role of negative emotions, by explaining variations in coping mechanisms and by incorporating both distal and proximal variables associated with male-perpetrated IPH. Building on existing theoretical and empirical research, the current research provides a GST application of male-perpetrated IPH.