A Review of the Theoretical Framework for Trauma-Informed Health Care Support of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a significant global public
health and human rights concern with severe physical, psychological,
and emotional consequences for survivors. The World Health
Organization recommends that member states strengthen legal and
healthcare frameworks to ensure effective support for IPV survivors.
Despite increasing awareness of trauma-informed care, many
jurisdictions still lack survivor-centered laws and integrated
healthcare responses capable of addressing the complex realities of
IPV, including coercive control, repeated victimization, stigma, and
cultural barriers. Existing literature further reveals inadequate
integration between healthcare systems, psychological support, social
welfare services, and legal protection mechanisms, thereby limiting
comprehensive survivor care. This study addresses this gap by
proposing a theoretical framework for trauma-informed healthcare
support for IPV survivors. The study is grounded in Rights Theory, the
Health Belief Model, and Doctor–Patient Relationship Theory to
provide a comprehensive theoretical foundation for trauma-informed
healthcare support for IPV survivors.
Using a doctrinal research methodology and critical analysis of
relevant literature and theories, the study synthesizes trauma theory,
survivor-centered care principles, public health approaches, and
interdisciplinary support mechanisms into a coherent conceptual
model for healthcare practice and policy development