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BIS/BAS Variables as Moderators of the Rumination-Intimate Partner Violence Link

NCJ Number
245443
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 28 Issue: 3 Dated: April 2013 Pages: 233-242
Author(s)
Joan Marianne Sotelo; Julia C. Babcock
Date Published
April 2013
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Although cognitive rumination is related to violence perpetration, not all people who ruminate become violent.
Abstract
Although cognitive rumination is related to violence perpetration, not all people who ruminate become violent. Four personality variablesimpulsivity, anxiety, anger-in, anger-outwere tested as possible moderators of the link between the tendency to ruminate and the frequency of intimate partner violence (IPV). Variables related to the Behavioral Activation System (anger-out and impulsivity) were predicted to strengthen the rumination-IPV link; whereas measures related to the Behavioral Inhibition System (anger-in and anxiety) would suppress this link. As predicted, anger-out, anger-in, and impulsivity moderated the relation between rumination and IPV. No evidence was found for suppressor variables. Thus, appetitive drives appear to amplify the effect of rumination on violence. Clinically, therapeutic techniques that address rumination, anger, and impulsivity may help to reduce IPV risk. Abstract published by arrangement with Springer.