The Role of Shared Time and its Association with Partner in Intimate Partner Violence: A Review of Risk and Protective Factors Restricted; Files Only

Abstract

Background: Relationship quality is an underexplored factor in intimate partner violence (IPV) research. One key dimension of relationship quality is shared time, defined as the meaningful time partners spend together. This review aimed to better understand the role of shared time as a potential protective or risk factor for IPV.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of original quantitative and qualitative studies published between  January 2000 and August 12^th 2025 examining the relationship between shared time and IPV experience and perpetration using nine databases. Two reviewers independently screened studies at the title/abstract and full-text stages and extracted relevant data, with discrepancies resolved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. Quality assessment was conducted by a single reviewer using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for quantitative studies and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme CASP Qualitative Checklist for qualitative studies.

Results: A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 19 quantitative and 4 qualitative studies. Quality assessment revealed quantitative studies were of weak quality and qualitative studies were of moderate to strong quality. Studies were largely from the North American region and among heterosexual couples, with gaps in studies from Asia and Latin America. Shared time was rarely measured as a standalone construct and was typically embedded within broader measures of relationship quality. Quantitative findings were mixed, with more consistent evidence supporting an inverse association between shared time and psychological IPV, while results for other forms of IPV were inconsistent. Qualitative studies suggested that shared time may reduce IPV through mechanisms such as improved communication, emotional connection, and relationship dynamics.

Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for clearer conceptualization and measurement of shared time in IPV research. Future research should develop standardized measures and examine shared time as a potential pathway for IPV prevention.

Table of Contents

Background and Significance

Methods

Table 1

Results

Figure 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

Discussion

Figure 2

References

Appendix

About this Master's Thesis

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School	Rollins School of Public Health
Department	Hubert Department of Global Health
Degree	M.P.H.
Submission	Master's Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Health Sciences, Public Health Sociology, Individual and Family Studies Health Sciences, General
Keyword	intimate partner violence IPV time together domestic violence
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Ameeta Kalokhe, Emory University

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