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Reciprocal Psychological Aggression in Couples: A Multi-Level Analysis in a Community Sample
María Luisa Cuenca Montesino1, José Luis Graña Gómez2, Rosario Martínez Arias1
1Faculty of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
Journal of Interpersonal Violence
|October 16, 2014
Summary
This study found that psychological aggression is common in relationships, with younger couples exhibiting higher rates. Partner aggression was reciprocal, but cohabitation duration did not influence its occurrence.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Sociology
Background:
- Psychological aggression is the most prevalent form of intimate partner aggression.
- Understanding its reciprocal nature and prevalence in couples is crucial for intervention.
- Previous research highlights the need for detailed analysis of psychological aggression dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze reciprocal psychological aggression in adult couples using the Conflict Tactics Scale-Revised (CTS-2).
- To identify demographic factors, such as age and cohabitation duration, associated with psychological partner aggression.
- To examine the level of agreement between partners regarding incidents of psychological aggression.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 590 adult couples from the Region of Madrid was surveyed.
- The Conflict Tactics Scale-Revised (CTS-2) was used to assess psychological aggression.
- Generalized Hierarchical Linear Models (HLM) were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- High percentages of psychological aggression were reported by both men and women.
- Women reported significantly higher rates of severe psychological aggression.
- Reciprocal psychological aggression was confirmed, with younger couples showing increased aggression.
- Partner agreement on aggression acts was moderate.
Conclusions:
- Psychological aggression is a widespread issue in intimate partner relationships.
- Younger age is a significant risk factor for increased reciprocal psychological aggression.
- While reciprocal, the duration of cohabitation does not predict psychological partner aggression.
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