Why the Overwhelming Evidence on Partner Physical Violence by Women Has Not Been Perceived and Is Often Denied

Over 200 studies have found about the same percentage of women as men physically assault partners, and that the risk factors and motivations are mostly the same as for men. Explanations are suggested for why this fundamental fact has not been perceived by the public and practitioners, including concealment and denial by many academics who know the research. Explanations for concealment and denial are also presented, with discussion of the adverse effect that misperception and denial have had on prevention and treatment programs. The practical implications of recognizing gender symmetry in partner violence are discussed.