Coercive Control and Intimate Partner Violence
This study is exploring how 'coercive control' – a pattern of controlling behaviour in a relationship – affects women's physical and mental health. This type of control is a big part of domestic abuse and can have serious health consequences. While many countries recognise it, there hasn't been much research on its health effects in France. By understanding this better, researchers hope to help healthcare professionals identify women at risk sooner and provide them with the right support. The goal is to improve how doctors and public health services respond to women experiencing this hidden form of domestic abuse.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine a relationship where one person gradually takes away another's freedom, making them feel dependent, isolated, and constantly watched. This is called 'coercive control', and it's a common but often overlooked part of domestic abuse. This study wants to understand how experiencing this kind of control affects a woman's health, both physically and mentally.
While many countries have recognised coercive control in their laws and policies, there hasn't been much research about its health impacts specifically in France. This means doctors might not always recognise it or know how best to help women who are experiencing it. This research aims to fill that gap.
By gathering information on how coercive control links to health problems, the study hopes to achieve two main things: firstly, to help doctors and other professionals better spot when a woman might be in a controlling relationship, and secondly, to inform the development of better ways to support these women and improve their overall health and well-being. It's all about making sure women get the right help at the right time.
Key takeaways
- This study looks at how controlling relationships affect women's health.
- It aims to improve how doctors in France spot and help victims of coercive control.
- Participation involves filling out questionnaires and possibly interviews.
- Only women aged 18+ in France, who speak French, can join.
- Your involvement could help future efforts to support women affected by abuse.
Who may be eligible?
This study is specifically looking for women aged 18 or older who have experienced violence in an intimate relationship for at least three months. This could be a current relationship or one they have recently left. You need to be able to speak and understand French well enough to fill out questionnaires.
To take part, you also need to be a recognised victim of domestic abuse, and covered by the French social security system or eligible for universal healthcare in France. You shouldn't have any strong objections to joining the study.
Unfortunately, you can't take part if you are under certain legal protections in France (unless you are pregnant or breastfeeding), or if you have serious problems with memory or understanding, or severe, unstable mental health conditions like schizophrenia or severe bipolar disorder. This is to ensure that everyone who participates can fully understand the study and provide their consent.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a woman aged 18 or older?
- Have you experienced violence in an intimate relationship for at least 3 months?
- Are you able to speak and understand French well?
- Are you covered by French social security or eligible for French universal healthcare?
- Do you not have a severe, unstable mental health condition or significant memory issues?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would be asked to complete some questionnaires. These questionnaires will ask about your experiences with coercive control and how they might relate to your physical and mental health. The study uses self-administered questionnaires, meaning you would fill them out yourself. There might also be interviews to gather more detailed information. It's not mentioned how long this would take in total, but filling out questionnaires and participating in interviews are the main activities involved.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- CHI Robert BallangerVerified postcodeAulnay-sous-Bois, France
Common questions
What is 'coercive control'?
It's a pattern of behaviour in a relationship where one person tries to take away another's freedom and independence, often through threats, isolation, and monitoring.
Why is this study only for women?
This particular study focuses on women who are victims of intimate partner violence and coercive control to understand their specific experiences and health impacts.
Do I have to live in France to join?
Yes, you need to be affiliated with the French social security system or eligible for French universal health coverage, and be able to speak French well.
What will I have to do if I join?
You will be asked to fill out questionnaires and potentially participate in interviews about your experiences and health.
Who will see my answers?
Your answers will be kept confidential and used for research purposes only, to help improve understanding and support for women experiencing coercive control.
How to find out more
Fatima F LE GRIGUER, Principal Investigator
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.