NCJ Number
223271
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 23 Issue: 5 Dated: July 2008 Pages: 315-323
Date Published
July 2008
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Two studies examined whether the content and frequency of men's use of partner-directed insults predicted their use of sexually coercive behaviors with their partners.
Abstract
Both studies showed an overall pattern of positive links between partner-directed insults and sexually coercive behavior in the intimate relationship. Derogating the partner's value as a person and accusing her of sexual infidelity uniquely predicted men's overall sexual coercion across both studies. The research found that 92 percent of men and women reported at least one occurrence of insulting behavior in their current relationship. This suggests that almost all men insult their intimate partners at some point in the relationship; however, some of the insults more strongly predict sexual coercion in abusive relationships than in nonabusive relationships. The findings suggest that treatment for harmful sexually coercive behavior in an intimate relationship should include addressing partner-directed insults and their underlying causes. One study obtained self-reports from 247 men using the Partner-Directed Insults Scale and the Sexual Coercion in Intimate Relationships Scale. The second study obtained partner reports from 378 women using the same measures. The content of the insults measured were derogations of physical attractiveness, mental competency, and value as a person, as well as accusations of sexual infidelity. 5 tables and 28 references