The Association of Victimisation with Vengeance Cognitions and Fantasies in Early Adulthood: A Longitudinal Study

• In Event: Contemporary Challenges in Victimization and Justice Responses

Abstract

The present longitudinal study investigated the cognitive repercussions individuals experience following victimisation, focusing on the development of vengeance cognitions and fantasies during early adulthood. Victimisation is known to yield substantial socio-emotional consequences, including social withdrawal and emotional distress. However, the cognitive processes following victimisation, particularly concerning thoughts of vengeance, remain inadequately explored. Thus, the current study aimed to explore the impact of victimisation on vengeance cognitions and fantasies. Data from the Zurich Project on Social Development from Childhood to Adulthood (z-proso), collected at ages 20 and 24, were used to examine various forms of victimisation, including bullying, serious violent (SV), and intimate partner violence (IPV) victimisation, in relation to vengeance. Multiple linear regression analysis and structural equation modelling were employed to explore the relationships between victimisation and vengeance cognitions and fantasies, while controlling for vengeance antecedents, prior victimisation, and prior vengeance. Increases in vengeance cognitions and fantasies at age 24 were predicted by more frequent experiences of bullying, SV, certain forms of IPV, and polyvictimisation in the previous 12 months. Gender significantly moderated these relationships, indicating that the associations between victimisation types and vengeance differ by gender. The link between victimisation and vengeance was generally weaker among women for bullying and SV victimisation. However, it was stronger for IPV victimisation, particularly for sexual IPV. The findings emphasise the importance of considering gender differences and the distinct effects of various types of victimisation on vengeance cognitions and fantasies. This understanding can potentially guide the development of support strategies for individuals following victimisation.

Authors

• Andrea Tam, University of Cambridge

• Manuel Eisner, University of Cambridge

• Denis Ribeaud, University of Zurich