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Object relations in abusive partner relationships: an empirical investigation
1Department of Psychology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock 79406, USA.
Journal of Personality Assessment
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Individuals in abusive relationships exhibit lower object relations levels, impacting both partners. This study explored object relations in abusive versus non-abusive relationships, finding impairments in the former.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Partner violence is a significant public health issue.
- Understanding the psychological impact on individuals in abusive relationships is crucial.
- Object relations theory offers a framework for examining interpersonal functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate object relations in individuals reporting partner violence.
- To compare object relations between individuals in abusive and non-abusive relationships.
- To examine gender differences in object relations within these groups.
Main Methods:
- The Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale (SCORS) was administered.
- Participants included individuals in abusive (n=81) and non-abusive (n=26) relationships.
- The Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS) identified partner violence.
Main Results:
- Individuals in abusive relationships showed lower object relations levels.
- No significant gender differences in object relations were found.
- Findings support the hypothesis of object relations impairment in abusive relationships.
Conclusions:
- Object relations impairment is evident in both partners within abusive relationships.
- These findings have implications for therapeutic interventions.
- Further research is needed to explore the nuances of object relations in domestic violence contexts.