Shelly M. Wagers

Dr. Shelly M. Wagers is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminology at the University of South Florida Saint Petersburg campus. Her research focuses on intimate partner violence, specifically analyzing internal motives behind such behaviors and their impact on interpersonal relationships. She developed the Internal Power® theory to measure internal mechanisms influencing coercive control and violence. Dr. Wagers has published widely in journals like Journal of Interpersonal Violence and Violence and Victims, and presents at national/international conferences such as the American Society of Criminology.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Criminology, University of South Florida (2012)
• M.A. in Criminology, University of South Florida (2005)
• B.S. in Public Health Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro (1994)

Research Interests:

• Domestic violence prevention
• Internal motives in violence
• Evidence-based practices in criminal justice
• Coercive control mechanisms

Professional Activities:

• Associated Editor for Partner Abuse Journal
• Volunteer Executive Director, National Partnership to End Interpersonal Violence (NPEIV)
• Consultant for Domestic Violence Task Forces and agencies