Rethinking intimate partner violence risk: A Dyadic Socioecological Model of Adverse Relationship Pressures

Although intimate partner violence (IPV) research acknowledges intimate relationships as the site of IPV, existing work is often disconnected from the fundamental principles of relationship science. To address this gap, we introduce the Dyadic Socioecological Model of Adverse Relationship Pressures (ARPs). ARPs are defined as socioecological catalysts that span individual, dyadic, and systems levels of analysis and serve as antecedents for experiencing or enacting IPV. Unlike previous socioecological models, the ARP Model explicitly emphasizes the interdependent nature of relationship partners. The model highlights how shared and differentiated pressures interact dynamically within the dyad to create unique configurations of IPV risk. We argue that IPV is not reducible to isolated incidents or individual factors but rather emerges from this complex system of pressures. We conclude by proposing a research agenda across seven thematic areas to advance the utility of the ARP Model, promote theory integration, advance empirical work, and inform more effective, evidence-based prevention and intervention efforts.