Lethality Risk Factors Animated Series: Recent Separation
DV RISC
Recent separation is a critical lethality risk factor for intimate partner homicide as perpetrators often sense a potential loss of control over their partner, increasing the likelihood of violent retaliation against the separated partner. The period of post-separation is marked by increased danger, as it may intensify the perpetrator’s feelings of rejection and contribute to a volatile and potentially lethal situation. This animated video is a shortened version of the webinar from the DV RISC Lethality Risk Factors Series, and highlights why recent separation is a lethality risk factor, how it’s identified in specific IPV risk assessments, and practical steps that can be taken once it is flagged.