Mind Games and Heartaches:
The Associations Between Romantic Relational Aggression and Victimization and Sense of Agency in Emerging Adults
Researcher: Rita Jabbour
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Background: Previous research indicates that romantic relational aggression (RRA) and victimisation (RRV) negatively impact relationship quality. Other research shows that sense of agency can be an effective tool in responding to physical violence in relationships. However, little research examines how sense of agency relates to RRA and RRV. This study investigated the association between sense of agency and RRA/RRV, and the prevalence of RRA and RRV across genders.
Method: Participants (240 emerging adults aged 18-25; M = 20.58; 85.8% female) completed an online survey.
Results: Results indicated no significant correlation between sense of agency and RRA or RRV and no significant gender differences. However, exploratory analyses found a significant positive correlation between RRA and RRV and significant differences in RRA and RRV based on current relationship status.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that future research should investigate other possible correlates of RRA and RRV and the role relationship status may play in understanding them.