Dr. April Gerlock: Caregiving & Intimate Partner Violence

Linda Kreter and Military Network Radio presents: Caregiving and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): Research Update. April Gerlock, PhD, ARNP shares the newest research from a large study (882 interviews) with heterosexual couples where the veteran is in treatment for PTSD. The results show that caregivers are at special risk for IPV due to veteran culture, vulnerability, and loss of control, among other reasons. Those that communicate well, avoiding the secrecy inherent with PTSD avoidance, eliminating substance abuse, and who have safety protocols in place do well. Care gaps are exposed, as is the enhanced risk to the caregiver and children if and when IPV is reported and how well the VA faciity is equipped. An important topic during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Justin Constantine joins Linda today.