By Dr. Lauri Jensen-Campbell, EVP of Research and Development

False allegations are a serious concern in all crimes, but they carry unique weight in cases of intimate partner violence. Unlike other offenses, these allegations often arise in the context of deeply personal relationships where emotions run high and gender-based stereotypes can shape perceptions of credibility. Too often, assumptions about who “should” be the aggressor cloud judgments, leaving victims and defendants alike vulnerable to mistakes that ripple across their families, communities, and futures.

While much of the public discourse assumes false allegations are either rampant or rare, the truth is more nuanced. This white paper explores the prevalence of false allegations in intimate partner relationships and emphasizes that the stakes are high on both sides: minimizing the harm of genuine false reports while ensuring that valid claims of abuse are not dismissed. The reality is that false allegations not only harm those who are wrongfully accused, but they also undermine the credibility of true victims, casting doubt where there should be safety and support.

Dr. Lauri Jensen-Campbell examines how cultural stereotypes—such as the presumption that women are always the victims and men are always the aggressors—can distort investigations and judicial outcomes. These biases can lead to systemic blind spots where claims are either too quickly believed or too easily dismissed, depending on how closely they align with conventional expectations. The paper underscores that treating allegations with rigor, fairness, and evidence-based standards is essential to building a justice system that is both protective of victims and accountable to the truth.

The consequences of mishandling false allegations are far-reaching. For the accused, reputational damage, job loss, custody disputes, and even incarceration can follow. For true victims, the erosion of trust in the system means fewer may come forward, fearing disbelief or retaliation. And for society as a whole, confidence in legal institutions diminishes when cases are mishandled or justice appears uneven.

This white paper calls for a balanced, research-driven approach. It highlights the importance of thorough investigations, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and policies that recognize the complexity of intimate partner dynamics. By moving beyond stereotypes and acknowledging both the rarity and severity of false claims, we can build systems that protect the innocent, support the harmed, and hold true abusers accountable.

At The Archway, we believe that addressing false allegations with clarity and fairness is not about undermining victims—it is about strengthening the credibility of the entire system. When justice is grounded in evidence rather than assumption, we ensure that both survivors and the wrongfully accused are treated with dignity and that the fight against intimate partner violence remains focused on truth, safety, and accountability.