Dynamics of Power and Control

The Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs’ Power and Control Wheel¹² is a common framework for understanding the dynamics between abusers and victims of intimate partner violence.¹⁵ This framework, developed in 1984 as part of the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project, highlights that the foundation of abuse is due to wanting to gain absolute power and control in the relationship. It was not intended to reflect all types of violent relationships but “…offers a more precise explanation of the tactics men use to batter women…and reflects power imbalances in society” between men and women.¹⁵ Despite its limitations, it remains a common tool used in counseling and advocacy groups to help women identify tactics their partners have used against them.

The Power and Control Wheel also may be used in counseling services with the abusers themselves so that they can see that their behavior is not the norm, which can lead them to explore their beliefs that contributed to the atypical behavior. The Power and Control Wheel highlights various aspects to IPV, some of which health care professionals may not have considered to be a part of abusive relationships. It can also provide an explanation as to why a victim may not want to reveal the abuse to anyone, including a healthcare provider, or proceed with leaving the relationship or pursuing legal action against their abuser. It is important to note that an abusive partner may exhibit some of these patterns of behaviors, but not others in order to maintain the power and control in the relationship.¹⁵

Diagram documenting the most common abusive behaviors or tactics that were used against these women.

Figure 1. The Duluth Model.¹⁵

An updated gender-neutral version of the wheel was created by The Blackburn Center, pointing out that IPV is not exclusive to just women, as other communities, such as males and members of the LGBTQ community, also deal with IPV. It is important to note that violence in relationships in these communities occurs “within the context of larger societal oppression” and intersectionality.¹⁵

Figure 2. The Blackburn Center - Power and Control Wheel.¹⁶

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