Exploring the Influence of Dyadic Adult Attachment on Physical, Sexual, and Relational Aggression Within Romantic Relationships

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify if an association exists between dyadic adult attachment and physical, sexual, and relational aggression within romantic relationships. Participants were 696 couples who completed the RELATE in 2009. Subscales of the RELATE measuring adult attachment, physical/sexual aggression, and relational aggression were utilized to complete this study. Individuals were identified as secure, dismissing, preoccupied, or fearful based on their answers to the attachment measure. Attachment scores were then paired with their partner's score to form a dyadic adult attachment categorization. Differential inferential statistics were used to determine differences among attachment dyads in regard to physical/sexual and relational aggression. Relationships consisting of at least one insecurely-attached partner indicated higher levels of physical/sexual and relational aggression from both male and female partners. Relationships consisting of two insecurely-attached partners indicated the highest levels of physical/sexual and relational aggression among all groups. The findings of this study highlight the need for therapists to incorporate a measure for adult attachment into their intake assessment measures to assess risk for relationship aggression and provide context for couples presenting with a history of relationship aggression.