ABSTRACT

Chapter 7 examines the diverse nature of domestic and family violence (DFV) in terms of age, gender, and other identity characteristics as they relate to experiences of DFV. It elaborates upon the conventional notion of DFV as a feature of heterosexual adult relationships by applying its concepts to teen dating violence, adolescent family violence, elder abuse, and DFV in same-sex relationships, along with the experiences of male victims more generally. Building on earlier chapters, this chapter discusses the added layers of vulnerability associated with the intersection of DFV, gender, age, and family relationships. Challenges associated with help seeking as they may be experienced by different individuals and groups affected by DFV are identified. The chapter explores implications for different service responses as they relate to victims’ experiences of DFV at the intersection with other victim characteristics.