What will I learn on this module?
The module provides a critical analysis of contemporary debates about intimate partner violence. Its focus is primarily the UK, with some consideration of the situation in the USA and other countries. On the module, we will draw primarily on criminological, sociological, and feminist analyses, with some consideration of other disciplines (such as psychology). We will examine theoretical explanations of intimate partner violence in the social sciences, the policy and legal responses to it, and the social movement that has developed in response to it. You will gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of intimate partner violence, and the policy and activist responses to it, including relevant methodological issues.
How will I learn on this module?
The module will be delivered through a series of lectures and workshops. Interaction from students is required in both lectures and workshops. The module leader will draw on her experience of conducting research, publishing articles and engaging in activism about intimate partner violence and will also use film documentaries, news reports, topical events and guest lecturers where relevant and possible. An interactive, student-led approach will be encouraged in workshops. You will be encouraged to act as an independent learner and to use a wide range of academic and other sources of information, and to apply your understanding to relevant debates in the media and public life.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will receive a detailed module guide, including full reading list of essential and recommended reading. Power point slides which provide structure and detailed information for each lecture will be made available via Blackboard in advance of each lecture. The module leader will provide feedback about your participation in classes; the more you contribute, the more you will benefit from feedback. Detailed written feedback will be provided with each marked assignment. You may also contact the module tutors during her office hours for additional support.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
You will be able to:
1. critically review a coherent body of knowledge about, and policy and legal responses to, intimate partner violence
2. appraise the social movement that has developed to address this violence
3.judge the value and contributions of different methodological approaches to researching intimate partner violence
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
4. You will be able to critically engage with and evaluate a variety of information sources about intimate partner violence
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)
5. You will be able to: contribute constructively, sensitively, and ethically to debates about intimate partner as it merges in diverse social communities.
How will I be assessed?
The summative assessment for this module is a 4,000 word essay which will allow you to demonstrate your understanding of material covered in the module, written communication skills and skills in critical analysis. Written feedback will be provided with your mark for the assessment.
Formative assessment for this module is comprised of preparation for and engagement with workshop exercises and activities. Feedback on your performance will be provided verbally in workshops.
Pre-requisite(s)
Level 4 and level 5 of degree programmes in social sciences, (including Criminology and Forensic Science BSc) - or equivalent.
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code C8M9
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with optional study abroad year
Department Psychology
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or September 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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