Not Ageing Out of Violence? Older Men's Biographical Narratives of Their Abuse and Violence in Intimate Relationships With Female Partners

Abstract

Drawing on empirical research which incorporated biographical interviews with two older male perpetrators, this chapter develops theoretical conceptualisations of the histories, experiences and motives of these men. Four key areas are highlighted, which will be subject to closer scrutiny in relation to extant literature: (i) gender, particularly notions of masculinity, power and entitlement; (ii) attitudes relating to the use of violence both within intimate relationships and generally (iii) critical junctures in the life course which triggered attempts to desist; and (iv) an exploration of maturation and completion of treatment programmes in relation to their use of violence, future risks and efforts towards desistance.

Citation

Bellamy, C., Struthers, M. and Green, L. (2023), "Not Ageing Out of Violence? Older Men's Biographical Narratives of Their Abuse and Violence in Intimate Relationships With Female Partners", Bows, H. (Ed.) Not Your Usual Suspect: Older Offenders of Violence and Abuse (Feminist Developments in Violence and Abuse), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 105-119. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80071-887-620231008