Violence against women in intimate relations: A contrast of five theories

Abstract

This paper explores the correlates of violence against women in intimate relations. Using data from a large victimization survey, we assess five theoretical explanations based on patterns of association between violence and key attitudinal and socio-demographic variables: sexism, family violence, dependency, exchange and status inconsistency. We conclude that status inconsistency, understood as a complex multidimensional theory of patriarchy that integrates core elements of other theories, offers the best explanation. Women’s odds of suffering violence are higher if they have sexist partners, are disempowered or have higher statuses than their partners. Disempowered women have fewer resources to oppose the sexist culture on which violence breeds. Women with elevated statuses defy men’s dominance. Violence is intrinsic to a patriarchal system of power that fosters sexism and manifests violently when women are vulnerable or challenge men’s statuses.