This study examined reasons and motives for intimate partner violence (IPV) among a community sample women who used IPV against male intimate partners.
Hierarchical regression analyses revealed participants' aggression was driven by complex, multiple motives. All five motives were related to a greater frequency of perpetrating intimate partner violence (IPV). Treatment programs focusing on women's IPV perpetration should address both defensive and proactive motives. This study examined motives for IPV among a community sample of 412 women who used IPV against male partners. A "Motives and Reasons for IPV Scale" was proposed, of negative emotions, self-defense, control, jealousy, and tough guise. The study is seen as the first to investigate the relationship between women's motives for IPV and their perpetration of physical, psychological, and sexual aggression, as well as coercive control, toward partners. Tables, figure, and references (Published Abstract)