NCJ Number
157261
Date Published
1995
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This paper summarizes two New Zealand studies that examined what men know about domestic abuse, whether they condone it, and what they do themselves.
Abstract
The research was based on two studies conducted in New Zealand in 1994. The first was a survey of a nationally representative sample of 2,000 men. Using a highly structured questionnaire in face-to-face interviews, the study yielded a broad, quantitative profile of men's attitudes toward abuse and abusive behaviors. The survey provided information on personal characteristics, attitude towards abuse, and abusive behavior. The second study was a follow-up survey of 200 of the 2,000 men. It examined four issues raised by the first study: perceptions of the causes of abuse, control of women, the relative importance of "control of women" and "loss of control of anger" explanations, and loss of control. Findings show that New Zealand men have, on average, a high level of anger. Although 90 percent do not approve of a man hitting a woman in any circumstance, 56 percent disapprove only slightly or moderately. Ninety-two percent said the man should not be in charge, but 46 percent thought the man was in charge. Reasons for being in charge include the need for power, lack of self-esteem, seeking a macho image, family background, and lack of confidence in women. Suggestions are offered for future research. 4 tables and 3 figures