How is sexual aggression related to nonsexual aggression? A meta-analytic review

Abstract

To evaluate conflicting theories that perpetration of sexual aggression and perpetration of nonsexual aggression are either manifestations of one another (i.e., derived from the same underlying factors) or completely divergent in origin, we performed a meta-analysis of 68 independent data points that measured perpetration of both forms of aggression. Our findings indicated that research literature only partially supports the view that these aggression forms are similar in origin. While associations of significant magnitude were found between sexual and nonsexual aggression perpetration, they were limited to specific groups of perpetrators (i.e., adult perpetrators, nonincarcerated perpetrators, perpetrators who target adult victims). Important methodological moderators were also identified, including the use of self-report instruments and use of nonaggressive comparison groups, which resulted in stronger associations between sexual and nonsexual aggression. We discuss implications for theory refinement, as well as the identification, treatment, and prevention of sexual aggression.