The Importance of “Sexual Proprietariness” in Theoretical Framing and Interpretation of Pregnancy-Associated Intimate Partner Violence and Femicide

Abstract

Using a theoretical framework based on the concept of sexual proprietariness, findings from the National Violence Against Women Survey are presented. Prevalence of physical and sexual violence, stalking, threats of violence, and power and control were examined for the overall NVAW sample, for those women abused by an intimate partner in particular, and those who were physically abused during a pregnancy. Results indicate that women who are physically abused during pregnancy also experience higher levels of all other forms of abuse compared to women who are not pregnant when abused, including nearly twice the level of power and control.

Keywords

femicide gender intimate partner violence pregnancy sexual proprietariness domestic violence

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