Intimate Partner Violence Studies in the English-Speaking Caribbean and Diaspora: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most common form of gender-based violence (GBV) experienced by women globally. In the Caribbean, IPV is especially pervasive. This scoping review systematically examined descriptive studies, surveys, secondary data analyses, and mixed-methods studies or interventions conducted between 2000-and 2022 that address IPV or GBV among English-speaking adult Caribbean populations within both the region and in diaspora communities. Studies among non-English-speaking adult Caribbean populations, involving children or referencing childhood sexual abuse, articles not written or published in English, and those with a clear lack of IPV or GBV relevance were excluded. Forty (n = 40) articles met our inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Thematic analysis revealed three major domains: prevalence and risk factors (52.5%, n = 21), cultural attitudes and perceptions (32.5%, n = 13), and service engagement factors (15.0%, n = 6). Studies documented IPV prevalence rates ranging from 15% to 48%, with patriarchal cultural norms, childhood violence exposure, and economic stressors as key contributing factors. Research revealed significant geographic imbalances, with 42.5% (n = 17) of studies focusing on diaspora populations rather than Caribbean residents. Women comprised 87.5% (n = 35) of study participants, while men were included in only 32.5% (n = 13) of studies. Despite growing recognition of the IPV/GBV burden, research in this region remains limited in scope, scale, and methodological rigor. This review underscores an urgent need for rigorous, culturally tailored research to inform policy and improve IPV prevention and intervention strategies. Addressing these gaps can enhance evidence-based practices and health outcomes across the Caribbean.