Women’s Emotion Work in the Context of Intimate Partner Sexual Violence

Abstract

Intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) is a serious and prevalent form of violence against women. Yet, it has been neglected in research, policy and practice. In particular, the complex dynamics of IPSV are poorly understood, and qualitative research is lacking. This paper explores women’s emotional responses and coping strategies in the context of IPSV, using the sociological concept of “emotion work” to make sense of their experiences. Emotion work refers to the emotional labour undertaken by individuals to try and shape their own and others’ emotional responses. It can take the form of “deep acting” where the individual convinces themselves that an emotional response is authentic, or “su..