Walking over 'em: associations between emotion dysregulation, masculine norms, intimate partner abuse and interpersonal functioning

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] The purpose of this study was to explore relations between emotion dysregulation, masculine norms, abuse perpetration and interpersonal functioning in men referred for domestic assault. Experiences of 108 men participating in batter intervention programs from three different cities were examined. Results suggest that intimate partner abuse, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal functioning and the specific masculine norms of dominance, emotional control and self-reliance are associated. Multiple regression analysis indicated that emotion dysregulation and the masculine norm of dominance accounted for about 25% of the variance in reported abuse. In addition, the masculine norms of emotional control and self-reliance were significantly associated with emotion dysregulation and poor interpersonal functioning. These findings suggest that men who reported experiencing affect that was difficult for them to manage are more likely to abuse their partners, struggle to have positive relationships of any sort, and tend to believe that men should not share their emotions or ask for help.