As domestic violence continues to be a focus of social and psychological concern, two basic contradictory viewpoints endure: one rooted in male power dynamics, the other maintaining that both genders use and are victimized by violence. Although both sides have their merits, neither has adequately answered the crucial question: What causes conflict to escalate into violence?
This book reviews key gender- and non-gender-related violence issues and makes a compelling behavioral argument that using violence to control others is a rational choice. Promotes deeper understanding of partner violence, aimed at more effective intervention.
Preface.- Gender Differences in Aggressive Tendencies.- Dominance and Control.- Partner Violence as a Rational Choice.- Partner Violence as Planned Behavior.- The Process Leading to Partner Violence.- Partner Conflict Dynamics Throughout Relationship Periods.- Partner Conflict Dynamics.- Observation Units of Partner Violence.- Gender Differences in Escalatory Intentions.- Observations about the Third Paradigm.