NCJ Number
100822
Date Published
1986
Length
27 pages
Annotation
Both theoretical literature and empirical studies provide a basis for understanding the psychological bases of domestic violence.
Abstract
The three main categories of theories explaining spouse abuse are feminist-political theories, sociocultural theories, and psychological theories. The first category focuses on social hierarchy and sex roles; the second, on group behavior; and the third, on a variety of psychological perspectives. Social learning theories have most nearly matched the available clinical and empirical data. These theories regard violence as learned aggressive behavior that continues because it is reinforced and is not stopped because adverse consequences are not consistently applied. The violence generally occurs in a three-phase cycle: tension building, the acute battering incident, and a period of calm and loving contrition. Empirical studies are largely descriptive and use self-report data from victims. Results from psychological instruments have not always been consistent with those from self-report interviews. Clinical and structured interview studies have been the most useful. These and other studies have indicated incidence levels, demographic variables, the details of violence, impacts on children, and the nature and extent of sexual abuse. Knowledge gaps exist, however. Future research should try to determine the causes and evaluate programs. 86 references.