Economic dependence, control, power dynamics, and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM): An integrated literature review

The Caribbean is considered one of the most violent regions in the world, characterized by alarmingly high homicide rates and widespread intimate partner violence (IPV). As such, crime remains a critical focus in discussions surrounding both criminal justice and public health. This integrative literature review analyzes empirical studies from 2012 to 2022 across seven Caribbean countries to explore patterns of IPV, particularly emphasizing economic and emotional abuse, controlling behaviors, and power dynamics. Accordingly, this review addresses the central question: “How do economic dependence, control, and power dynamics influence intimate partner violence in the Caribbean community?” Women who are economically dependent face significant obstacles to leaving abusive relationships, compounded by cultural stigma, a lack of financial autonomy, and inadequate support systems. Structural challenges such as limited educational opportunities, high unemployment rates, and insufficient mental health services further exacerbate these issues. Guided by a Caribbean feminist perspective and Biderman’s Chart of Coercion, this review identifies gaps in the literature, including the limited availability of longitudinal data and the underrepresentation of male victims, and advocates for culturally informed policy reforms, expanded research, and gender-sensitive community interventions.