Examining the Moderation Effect of Self-Esteem on Domestic Violence Experiences and Dating Violence Perpetration and Victimization

• In Event: Research on Victim and Offender Risk for Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

Research examining predictors of dating violence demands considerable attention due to its serious consequences and lasting repercussions. While numerous studies based in Western countries have explored various patterns of intimate partner violence offending and victimization, research examining these behaviors in Asian societies has been scant. Understanding these behavioral patterns within the Asian context is important, given the different socio-cultural dynamics exhibited within many Asian societies. Given this gap, the current study used a large sample (n = 1,600) of college students living in South Korea to examine the relationship between both dating violence offending and victimization and individuals’ experiences with direct and indirect domestic violence victimization. Relatedly, the study also assessed the moderating effect of self-esteem on the relationship between dating violence offending and victimization and individuals’ experiences with domestic violence victimization. Results demonstrated that both direct and indirect domestic violence experiences and self-esteem were independently and simultaneously related to dating violence perpetration and victimization. Findings also revealed self-esteem moderated the effect of domestic violence experiences on dating violence behaviors. The theoretical and policy implications of this study in expanding our understanding of dating violence behaviors will be discussed in detail.

Authors

• Yongjae Nam, University of Texas at San Antonio

• Jin R. Lee, George Mason University

• Jennifer Ayerza, George Mason University

• Mahesh Nalla, Michigan State University