Abuse in Intimate Relationships

Abstract

This study compared the reported incidence among males and females of dominance-possessiveness, sexual pressure, and use of physical force by one's partner for a sample of 130 married college students and 130 college students in dating relationships. Possessiveness was common and similar in incidence for married and dating students. Sexual pressure was reported by more married students, with dating students who were sexually involved to the extent of having intercourse more like marrieds. Use of moderate physical force—pushing, slapping, or hitting with an object—was experienced more often by the dating students. Males were as likely as females to report the partner engaging in these behaviors, and this applied to both the married and dating students. About 11% of both married and dating students reported consequences such as requiring medical attention or calling the police, which suggest more severe physical abuse. Note that this is a study of ever occurring incidences and not of battering per se. The theoretical implications for family violence literature of findings on courtship violence are discussed.

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