Abstract

Acculturation, as a process of cultural adaptation, has significant implications for interpersonal dynamics and mental health outcomes, including intimate partner violence (IPV). The present study provides a systematic review of empirical literature examining the relationship between acculturation and IPV across diverse cultural and ethnic groups. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they assessed acculturation and IPV among adult populations and reported measurable associations between these variables. A total of 48 studies comprising multiple independent effect sizes were included in the final analysis. The findings indicate a complex and inconsistent relationship between acculturation and IPV. While several studies report a positive association, suggesting that higher levels of acculturation are linked to increased IPV risk, others demonstrate negative or non-significant relationships. The strength of associations ranged from negligible to moderate, highlighting variability across cultural contexts and measurement approaches. Key factors contributing to these inconsistencies include heterogeneity in acculturation measurement, reliance on proxy indicators (e.g., language, length of residence), and differences in sample characteristics. Additionally, gender-specific patterns were observed, with variations in IPV victimization and perpetration across males and females. The review underscores that acculturation is a multidimensional and context-dependent construct whose impact on IPV cannot be understood through linear models. The findings highlight the need for standardized, multidimensional measures of acculturation and greater consideration of sociocultural moderators such as gender roles, social support, and structural inequalities. Implications for research, clinical practice, and policy are discussed, emphasizing the importance of culturally informed interventions aimed at reducing IPV in diverse populations.