In addition to demographic asymmetries, this study explored how differences in relational and risk behaviors were associated with intimate partner violence (IPV).
Social characteristics are prominent factors in mate selection, but they are also important for the quality and functioning of intimate relationships. Researchers have shown that the intimate relationships that are considered the most successful often have high levels of partner similarity. Yet this prior work is limited, as it largely focuses on demographic differences (or asymmetries) between intimate partners. The current study examined data from the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study (n = 828) and found that young adults in relationships with demographic, relational, and risk asymmetries reported greater frequency of violence. Furthermore, the study found that asymmetries in risk behavior had the strongest association with IPV. These findings highlighted the importance of considering different types of asymmetries and provided new insight into the functioning of young adult relationships. (publisher abstract modified)