Prevalence and correlates of dating violence in a Canadian university sample.

Abstract

The prevalence and correlates of dating violence were assessed in a sample of 166 undergraduates (116 women, 50 men; median age = 19 years) at a Canadian university. Participants responded to the Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS modified Form N; Straus, 1979), a self-esteem inventory, and questions regarding their course major, demographic characteristics, and current or most recent dating relationship. Of the total sample, 45.8% (n = 76; 52 women, 24 men) reported having experienced physical violence in their current or most recent dating relationship. Students who reported dating violence also reported greater relationship commitment, longer relationship durations, and higher levels of Reasoning and Verbal Aggression than students who did not report dating violence. Correlational patterns suggested that the dating relationships of students who report violence are characterized by more intense commitment but less reciprocal and/or less predictable use of conflict resolution tactics than is the case for students who have not experienced dating violence. There was a statistically significant difference, by sex, in the reported expression and receipt of specific conflict resolution strategies. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science, 1992. Copyright © 1992 by the Canadian Psychological Association) Dating Violence Victim Canada College Student Research Adult Victim Adult Male Adult Female Female Victim Male Offender Gender Differences Dating Violence Incidence and Prevalence Violence Against Women Partner Violence 02-02