Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) within LGBTQ+ Relationships in South Africa: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Within South Africa, the causes of intimate-partner violence (IPV) among heterosexual couples have been well studied, with various IPV interventions developed over the past decades. This project presents a systematic review of IPV occurring among queer individuals, that is, queer intimate partner violence (QIPV). This systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to increase transparency and track the flow of information. The literature was screened using Rayyan and relevant literature was assessed for eligibility using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) quality evaluation instrument. Descriptive and analytical data were then extracted and analysed using thematic synthesis to aid our understanding of why and how QIPV is taking place in South Africa (SA). The findings reveal a dearth of research focusing on LGBTQ+ individuals' IPV experiences, primarily due to heteronormativity and everyday stereotypes about queer relationships. Myths and fears that obstruct discourse around this phenomenon have caused a silencing within the public sphere creating a cloud of secrecy around QIPV. Six primary themes were identified; these include: (1) silence of QIPV; (2) characteristics of QIPV in SA; (3) barriers to seeking help; (4) successes and failures of protective factors; (5) lack of research and accurate knowledge about QIPV, and; (6) proposed strategies to decrease QIPV. Seemingly, the flawed epistemic foundation of IPV, rooted in heteronormativity, weaves through all these themes. The findings of this systematic review indicate that safe spaces are needed, which allow for QIPV to be openly discussed and approached by queer and heterosexual communities to break the silence around this topic and allow for epistemic and social justice. Here, the potential role of action research is emphasised in producing accurate context specific knowledge and interventions for epistemic justice in SA. Findings accentuate the need for greater inclusion of queer persons in the IPV and mental health discourses and the importance of social support for QIPV victims.