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Although partner abuse generally
occurs in private, the ripple effect spreads from home and family
to affect neighborhoods and communities. Before we can effectively
address the problem, we need accurate information and more research
based on objective assessment of the full range of dynamics
in partner relations. Key areas for exploration are summarized
in findings from fairly recent literature:
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A monolithic etiological model of marital
aggression is inadequate to capture the diversity of relationship
and individual dynamics in physically aggressive marriages
(Vivian & Langhinrichsen-Rohling, 1996, p. 45-46)
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Integrated theories are necessary; ones
that are gender neutral and include societal and interpersonal
factors as well as psychological characteristics (Miller,
1996, p. 198)
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As yet, no data support a view with
a simple, binary answer to the questions examined, and
very little empirical evidence exists to guide treatment
for spouse abuse (O'Leary & Murphy, 1999, p. 26)
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Future research should focus on the
extent to which violence perpetrated against women by
intimate partners consists of systematic terrorism and
the consequences of this type of victimization (Tjaden,
& Thoennes, 2000)
The Family Interventions Project is exploring
these and other areas through
small-scale studies designed to inform future research and develop
integrated frameworks for effective prevention and treatment
programs.
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