The flywheel effect of intimate partner violence: A victim–perpetrator interactive spin

Causal explanations of intimate partner violence (IPV) usually attempt to logically link past events and experiences to the present, in order to provide an etiological account. A different, less common perspective is that of a phenomenological, non-causal interpretation of IPV. Based on the criminal spin theory, the current paper presents the victim–perpetrator interactive spin (VPIS) model, constructed by four motives. The VPIS contributes the idea that both the victim and the perpetrator interact to further exacerbate a spin process. From this point of view, IPV can be seen as a chronic spin that traps perpetrator and victim in a vicious interaction that characterizes their relationship. In the absence of a crisis or external intervention, continued violence is perceived as the only option; hence, the interactive spin preserves itself and the violent flywheel effect remains in motion. Clinical and research implications are provided with suggestions for ending the violent spin.

► The victim–perpetrator interactive spin model is comprised of four motives.
► Victim–perpetrator interaction exacerbates a spin process.
► Intimate partner violence is a spin interaction that characterizes the relationship.
► Crisis or external intervention may disrupt the self-preserving interactive spin.
► Suggestions for ending the violent spin are provided.