Why Doesn’t He Leave? Relationship Continuity and Satisfaction Among Male Domestic Violence Offenders

Problem

The problem the study aimed to address: 

The study explores relationship continuity and satisfaction among male intimate partner violence (IPV) offenders, a topic underrepresented in research compared to studies on why female victims stay in abusive relationships.

General impact on the system and/or public: 

Understanding the male offender's perspective provides critical insights for risk assessment, safety planning for victims, and developing interventions to mitigate IPV recidivism.

Research Questions:

1. What factors predict relationship continuity among male IPV offenders?
2. What influences relationship satisfaction in these offenders?
    

Method and Analysis

Program Evaluated or Gaps Addressed: 

The study fills gaps by focusing on male IPV offenders' perspectives on relationship satisfaction and continuity using theoretical frameworks such as the investment model and examining unique predictors like victim blame, jealousy, and power imbalances.
 

Data and Sample Size: 

• Sample Size: 1,130 male probationers convicted of IPV offenses.
• Demographics: Predominantly African American (85%), ages 18-40, with 51% having children with the victim.
   

Analysis Used:

• Logistic regression to predict relationship continuity.
• Multivariate regression analysis to identify predictors of relationship satisfaction.
• Standardized measures for key variables, including relationship satisfaction, victim blame, and attitudes toward women.
   

Outcome

Key Findings:

• Relationship Continuity:
  • 59% of offenders intended to continue their relationships.
  • Factors increasing continuity: older age, marriage, having children, lower victim blame, and a history of family violence.
  • Victim aggression was not a significant predictor in multivariate analyses.
• Relationship Satisfaction:
  • Relationship satisfaction was lower among men who reported higher levels of victim aggression, jealousy, and hostile attitudes toward women.
  • Having children reduced satisfaction despite predicting continuity.
  • A partner's higher education level surprisingly increased satisfaction.
     

Implications or Recommendations: 

• Clinical Practice:
  • Interventions should address jealousy, victim blame, and negative attitudes toward women to enhance satisfaction and reduce recidivism risk.
  • Parenting-focused programs may mitigate the dual risks posed by children increasing continuity and IPV recurrence.
• Future Research:
  • Longitudinal studies to explore causation between relationship satisfaction, IPV, and continuity.
  • Tailored assessments considering cultural and demographic variations in IPV dynamics.
     

This research underscores the complexity of IPV offender relationships, with significant implications for reducing violence and improving victim safety.