The Competency of Complex Trauma Theory in Explaining the Relationship between Recurrent Intimate Partner Violence and Emotional Dysregulation: A Critical Review

Author(s)	Suditi Yadav
Country	India
Abstract	Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with adverse psychological outcomes, including difficulties in emotional regulation. However, the extent to which adult IPV independently contributes to emotional dysregulation (ED), beyond prior trauma and pre-existing vulnerabilities, remains unclear. This review critically examines the relationship between IPV and ED through complex trauma theory (CTT), considering childhood maltreatment, revictimisation, and other overlapping risk pathways. The literature indicates associations between IPV, psychological distress, and trauma-related symptoms, while research on complex post-traumatic stress disorder highlights the relevance of affective dysregulation following prolonged interpersonal trauma. Nevertheless, limitations in study designs, inconsistent outcome measures, and the inclusion of diverse trauma populations restrict causal interpretation. Childhood maltreatment and previous victimisation may complicate observed associations, although their influence does not diminish the harms of IPV. The review concludes that longitudinal research accounting for prior vulnerabilities is necessary to clarify whether adult IPV independently contributes to ED and to refine trauma-informed assessment.
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2026
Published On	2026-11-08

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Advanced International Journal for Research