Coercive Control, Physical Violence, and Masculinity

Abstract

Abstract This article seeks to explore the relationship among three individual-level trait measures of masculinity and two aspects of intimate partner violence (IPV), physical violence and coercive control, in a sample of 137 heterosexual men court mandated to a batterers' treatment program. Results indicate that aspects of masculinity, specifically restrictiveness and hostile sexism, may contribute to the use of coercively controlling tactics in intimate relationships. Furthermore, implications from these findings suggest that failure to achieve desired control may lead to the use of physical violence. With inconsistent past findings and the limited study of clinical populations, further examination of these concepts provides increased understanding of the mechanisms behind IPV perpetration. Results provide a greater understanding of the complexity of this violence to better assist individuals experiencing IPV.