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Dating violence at three time periods: 1976, 1992, and 1996
R E Billingham1, R Bland, A Leary
1Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405, USA. billingh@indiana.edu
Psychological Reports
|December 28, 1999
Summary
Dating violence and verbal aggression scores decreased over a 10-year period at a large university. More students reported nonviolent relationships, indicating a potential reduction in dating conflict aggression.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Sociology
Background:
- Dating violence is a significant issue among young adults.
- Understanding trends in relationship aggression is crucial for intervention.
- Previous research indicates varying rates of dating violence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine changes in the incidence of dating violence over a decade.
- To compare verbal aggression and violence scores in dating relationships.
- To identify trends in nonviolent versus violent relationship dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study analyzing data from 1986, 1992, and 1996.
- Utilized Straus's Conflict Tactics Scale to assess relationship aggression.
- Compared responses from a large university student population (n=1588 total).
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in both verbal aggression and violence scores was observed over the 10-year period.
- The proportion of respondents reporting nonviolent relationships increased.
- Conversely, the percentage of respondents involved in violent relationships (mutual, perpetrator, victim) decreased.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest a potential overall decrease in aggression during conflict resolution in dating relationships.
- The study highlights a positive shift towards nonviolent conflict management among dating university students.
- Continued monitoring of dating violence trends is recommended.