The Degree of Specialization among Female Partner Violence Offenders and the Role of Self-Defense in Its Explanation

Abstract

Research conclusions about whether intimate partner violence offenders specialize or offend in a more general pattern are mixed and few studies have focused upon females. The current quantitative research adds to our knowledge about female specialization in intimate partner violence perpetration among Australian and American female university students (n = 185). Using a diversity index, offense specialization coefficient and latent class analysis, the current findings add weight to the evidence supporting moderate specialization patterns. In contrast to some prior research and theoretical assumptions, self-defense does not appear to be a primary explanation for female intimate partner violence specialization in the current study.