NCJ Number
154139
Journal
Family Violence and Sexual Assault Bulletin Volume: 10 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (1994) Pages: 40,42-44
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
In recent years, several studies have investigated gender differences in the initiation of partner violence; the current study sorted functions of violence by males and females into conceptual groups and predicted that functions of female violence would be self-defense and protection, while functions of male violence would involve control and domination.
Abstract
Study participants included 75 women and 219 men who were court-referred for evaluation prior to participation in a domestic violence counseling program. Evaluation consisted of an intake interview, psychometric evaluation, and feedback and treatment planning. Female and male perpetrator responses were analyzed separately. Analysis of female perpetrator responses partially confirmed the predicted functions of self-defense and protection. Other reasons for violence, however, also emerged, such as retaliation, desire for attention, negative instrumental control, and coercive power. Analysis of male perpetrator responses revealed numerous negative themes related to abuse of power and control. These themes included assertion of dominance, control of physical and verbal behaviors and emotional responses, punishment for unwanted behaviors, and isolation from important others. Males also attributed violence to alcohol abuse, pent up anger, and desire for attention. The authors believe that modifying cognitive and behavioral processes, along with consideration of more interpersonal variables, may alter the precipitation and maintenance of domestic violence. 14 references and 3 tables