Critical review of theoretical frameworks elucidating the mechanisms accounting for the adverse developmental outcomes observed in children following exposure to intimate partner violence

Abstract The adoption of a useful theoretical framework is a fundamental component of any research study, whether the investigator is using a deductive theory-verifying approach or an inductive theory-generating approach. In an attempt to encourage the use of valid and reliable theoretical frameworks in both research and clinical practice with children exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV), the main purpose of the present paper was to present a critical review of four of the most widely used theoretical frameworks used to explain the mechanisms accounting for the adverse developmental outcomes observed in children exposed to IPV. First, we described the main propositions of these frameworks, which include developmental psychopathology, social learning theory, attachment theory, and trauma theory. Next we provided a critical review of the main empirical findings related to the study of children's adjustment following exposure to IPV within each of these frameworks, as well as a critical comparison of the four frameworks that takes into account their explanatory power concerning the development of adjustment difficulties observed in this population. We concluded our review by recommending the most suitable and useful frameworks with regard to elucidating the mechanisms involved in the development of adjustment difficulties in children following exposure to IPV.