After the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns were raised worldwide about the potential rise of intimate partner violence (IPV) rates occurring due to increased social isolation, mental health problems, and uncertainty about the future. During this session, participants will learn about how IPV rates changed over the course of the pandemic and what factors contributed to IPV risk. Particular attention will be given to IPV occurring within LGBTQ+ relationships, as sexual and gender diverse individuals may be especially vulnerable to experiencing IPV and face greater challenges in accessing support.   

Join Acadia University professors Dr. Kathryn Bell and Dr. Diane Holmberg ('89) on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023 for an Acadia Alumni virtual event. Executive Director, Alumni Affairs Oonagh Proudfoot ('93, '06) will moderate the discussion.

Register HERE.

Presenter bios

Dr. Kathryn Bell

Dr. Kathryn Bell is a clinical psychologist in the Psychology Department at Acadia University. She completed her PhD in clinical psychology at Western Michigan University and did post-doctoral work in the Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University. Dr. Bell's primary research interests revolve around the investigation of risk and resiliency factors associated with interpersonal violence, including intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual assault. In recent years, she received grant funding for two projects investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on coping, mental well-being, and interpersonal conflict. Dr. Bell is a registered psychologist in Nova Scotia with clinical expertise in the assessment and treatment of trauma, anxiety, OCD, and addictions.

Dr. Diane Holmberg

Dr. Diane Holmberg ('89) completed her Honours BA in Psychology at the University of Waterloo, and her Master's and Ph.D. degrees at the University of Michigan. She graduated in 1994 and has been teaching at Acadia ever since. She is a social psychologist, with research interests in the area of romantic relationships. In her time at Acadia, she has authored over 30 publications, given more than 80 presentations at national and international conferences, and supervised more than 50 student theses. Though recently retired, Dr. Holmberg remains active in research and student supervision.