Leaving ≠ Moving

Abstract

Access to safe and affordable housing is a key concern for women leaving abusive partners. Yet little is known about women’s housing patterns around leaving. In this community sample, approximately equal numbers of women did not move, moved once, and moved two or more times during the transition period around leaving. Overall, moving patterns were associated with housing type and suitability, economic circumstances, and severity of violence. This study calls into question the tendency to equate leaving with moving, draws attention to the different housing patterns after leaving, and highlights the need to tailor housing supports to diverse women.