TAKING RESPONSIBILITY - SEX-DIFFERENCES IN REPORTING DATING VIOLENCE

This study made use of a survey mailing to examine sex differences in reporting dating violence among college students. Respondents were surveyed regarding their frequency of inflicting and sustaining aggression in their dating relationships. Male and female responses to questions regarding who was responsible for violent acts were compared. The findings suggest that males are less likely than females to take responsibility for violence in a relationship and more likely to place blame on their partner. Males were also more likely to indicate the use of alcohol or drugs during violent episodes. Implications for future research are discussed.