Post-separation experiences of abuse

There is a perception that the end of an abusive relationship means the abuse stops but unfortunately there is evidence to suggest this is not the case. We know from the women’s victimisation literature the ways in which abuse can continue and change post-separation including physical violence and coercive control, but there have been fewer direct explorations of men’s experiences. In this chapter, we discuss some of the post-separation abusive behaviours identified in the wider victimisation literature (e.g., stalking and harassment) and the small number of studies specifically investigating the post separation abuse experiences of male victims. In concluding, we recommend there is a need for a greater understanding of IPV dynamics within some services that work with this post-separation type abuse (e.g., the family court system).