Personality characteristics of spouse abusers: a controlled comparison

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Criminology
• Addiction Studies

Background:

• Male spouse abuse is a significant societal issue with complex underlying factors.
• Understanding the psychological profiles of abusers is crucial for effective intervention.
• The role of alcohol problems in male battering requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare personality styles, psychopathology, and demographics of male spouse abusers (with and without alcohol problems) against nonabusive males.
• To examine the influence of childhood abuse and neglect on abusive behavior.
• To investigate the relationship between alcohol abuse and differences in personality and psychopathology between abusers and nonabusers.

Main Methods:

• Comparative study design involving three groups: male spouse abusers with alcohol problems, male spouse abusers without alcohol problems, and age-matched nonabusive males.
• Assessment of personality style, personality disorder, dysphoria, and demographic variables.
• Inclusion of measures related to childhood abuse and neglect history.

Main Results:

• Male abusers were less educated, less employed, and less likely to be in intact relationships.
• Abusers, especially those with alcohol problems, reported higher rates of witnessing or experiencing childhood abuse.
• Abusive males exhibited greater elevations in personality disorder and dysphoria, and lower conformity compared to nonabusers.
• Alcohol abuse exacerbated the differences in personality and psychopathology between abusers and nonabusers.

Conclusions:

• Male spouse abuse is associated with specific personality and psychopathology profiles, often linked to adverse childhood experiences.
• Alcohol problems significantly amplify these differences, suggesting a complex interaction.
• Findings have implications for targeted treatment and prevention strategies for male batterers.