The Experiences of Dyads Who Have Jointly Been Exposed to Domestic Abuse: Narratives of Growth, Connection and Resistance

Abstract

Background: The psychological impact of Domestic violence and/or abuse (DVA) can continue long after the abuse. There is limited research on psychological interventions for people who have experienced DVA historically. This research explores intergenerational dyads meaning making of the DVA and how they navigated its impact. Methods: This research utilised narrative inquiry to explore the stories of dyads who experienced DVA, focussing on how narratives have changed over time and the impact of the dyad's relationship. A novel design was used in interviewing dyads together and then separately to aid in understanding the impact of the relationship. Results: Three collective stories were identified: (1) “The relationship with DVA”, (2) “Understanding and Connection”, and (3) " Right support at the right time”. Within these collective stories were four sub-stories: (1) “Acts of resistance”, (2) “Mother and daughter”, (3) “Failure of services” and (4) "Embodied lives”. These stories were heavily braided together and spoke to individuals’ resistance particularly through their relationships with each other. Conclusion: Findings suggest dyads who experience DVA are knowledgeable in how abuse impacts them and how they can navigate these impacts which services may value. This research provides a direction for future research by suggesting the exploration of more heterogeneous groups.