Premarital Abuse A Social Psychological Perspective

• Published in: Journal of family issues Vol. 3; no. 1; pp. 79 - 90
• Main Authors: CATE, RODNEY M., HENTON, JUNE M., KOVAL, JAMES, CHRISTOPHER, F. SCOTT, LLOYD, SALLY
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Beverly Hills, Calif SAGE Publications 01.03.1982; Sage Publications
• ISSN: 0192-513X; 1552-5481
• DOI: 10.1177/019251382003001006

Little research has examined the incidence and dynamics of abuse between premarital partners at all levels of commitment. The present questionnaire study found the incidence of premarital abuse to be substantial and largely reciprocal in nature. Abuse typically began after some degree of commitment was established. Abuse was usually seen as caused by anger, although the effect of abuse on the relationship was not routinely seen as detrimental. It appeared that one possible explanation for abuse in these relationships was that those who stayed in abusive situations reported having fewer alternatives to the violent relationship than those who had terminated an abusive liaison. In general, the respondents had negative attitudes toward violence in relationships. However, those who had experienced abuse were more accepting of violence than those who had not experienced premarital abuse. The discussion focuses on several suggestions for further research to construct a clearer picture of premarital abuse.