Abstract:
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a universal problem that significantly
affects individual's mental and physical well-being.
Researchers have identified different risk factors for intimate partner
violence (IPV) perpetration and victimization. Research on IPV
however, have focused largely on either men or women with little
attempt to compare the sexes on issues that are associated with IPV
and the dynamics involved in relationships in which IPV occurs.
Using the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) (Strauss, Hamby,
Boney-McCoy, & Sugarman, 1996), we embarked on a preliminary
study exploring the different types of violence perpetrated on partners
among Ghanaians living in Accra. We also explored individual and
group characteristics such as age, education, and relationship status
as predictors of IPV. We administered the CTS2 to 150 people selected
from Accra. Our findings showed gender and education associations
with victimization and perpetration of IPV. We also found limited but significant associations with types of IPV. We discuss the appropriateness
of the CTS2 in Ghana and discuss our findings in the light of the
Ghanaian socio-cultural context.