Predicting Intentions of Romantic Partner Abuse with the Theory of Planned Behavior

摘要

From the theory of planned behavior, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were identified as predictors of intentions for verbal, physical, and sexual abuse toward romantic partners. Relationships among the three predictors across the three types of abuse were examined with responses from undergraduates involved in romantic relationships. The theory of planned behavior accounted for substantial variance associated with intentions to abuse romantic partners. Moreover, the components of the theory of planned behavior were differentially predictive of the three forms of abuse, which also varied by sex. A recommendation is that interventions should target different components of the theory of planned behavior depending on the type of abuse they are attempting to prevent.