Shifting Morality: the Impact of Motivation on IPV Perpetration

• In Event: Understanding Crime Through the Lens of Situational Action Theory: Empirical Findings and Methodological Advancements

Abstract

Situational Action Theory (SAT) provides a comprehensive framework for understanding human behavior, particularly in the context of intimate partner violence (IPV). This paper explores the intricate interplay between motivation and morality within the SAT framework concerning IPV through a mixed methods study in which motivation, as a central concept in SAT, is examined through the lens of the offender's perceived action alternatives and desired outcomes associated with engaging in violent behavior within intimate relationships.
In the context of IPV, the motivation to commit violence may be influenced by a myriad of factors, including personal desires for power and control, emotional dysregulation, and perceived provocations from the partner, categorized into either a provocation or a temptation. The dynamics of motivation in SAT emphasize the role of situational factors that can either enhance or deter an individual's willingness to resort to violence within the intimate relationship.
Morality, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in shaping the constraints on behavior within SAT. The theory suggests that individuals possess an internal morality that serves as a regulatory mechanism, influencing the likelihood of engaging in criminal acts. SAT underscores that the interplay between motivation and morality is dynamic and context-dependent, making it essential to consider the specific situational factors that influence an individual's decision-making process.
This paper explores the interplay between motivation and morality and its potential influence on the decision to engage in IPV behaviors. Understanding the nexus between motivation and morality in the SAT framework provides valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to prevent and address intimate partner violence. By addressing the underlying motivational factors and considering the moral dimensions of behavior, interventions can be designed to disrupt the causal pathways leading to IPV, fostering healthier and more respectful intimate relationships.

Author

• Sarah Carlo, University of Cambridge