Morbid Jealousy and Sex Differences
in Partner-Directed Violence
Authors: Easton, Judith and Shackelford, Todd
Source: Human Nature. Sep 2009, Vol. 20 Issue 3, p342-350. 9p. 1 Chart.
Subjects: JEALOUSY, SOCIAL problems, HATE crimes, CRIMES of passion
Abstract: Previous research suggests that individuals diagnosed with morbid jealousy have jealousy mechanisms that are activated at lower thresholds than individuals with normal jealousy, but that these mechanisms produce behavior that is similar to individuals with normal jealousy. We extended previous research documenting these similarities by investigating sex differences in partner-directed violence committed by individuals diagnosed with morbid jealousy.
The results support some of our predictions. For example, a greater percentage of men than women diagnosed with morbid jealousy used physical violence, attempted to kill, and actually killed their partners, and used their hands rather than an object to kill their partners. These results replicate results generated for individuals with normal jealousy. Discussion addresses implications of the current research and highlights directions for future research on the psychology of morbid jealousy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Short Term Change in Attitude and Motivating Factors
to Change Abusive Behavior of Male Batterers after Participating
in a Group Intervention Program Based on
the Pro-Feminist and Cognitive-Behavioral Approach
Authors: Schmidt, Michele
Source: Journal of Family Violence. Feb2007, Vol. 22 Issue 2, p91-100. 10p. 3 Charts.
Subjects: FAMILY violence, WOMEN'S shelters, ATTITUDE (Psychology), FEMINIST psychology, CRIMES of passion, ABUSIVE men, GENDER studies
Abstract: The Domestic Abuse Education Project (DAEP), in Burlington, Middlebury, and St. Albans, Vermont, is a group based domestic abuse intervention program, based in a pro-feminist and cognitive-behavioral approach for domestic violence intervention and prevention. A pre and post-test instrument was developed and implemented to determine short-term change in attitude of participants and motivating factors to change behavior, after completing the twenty-seven session program.
After the program, participants reported a positive change in attitudes regarding their abusive behavior and stereotypical beliefs about women. Participants were also more motivated to change their behavior by the effect abuse has on their family relationships. However, many participants continued to agree that insecurity, jealousy, and alcohol and drug use can cause violence. The positive changes in attitude and motivational factors show that this is an effective model in changing underlying batterer attitudes that provide rationale for abusive behavior.