Citation

Rosenbaum A, Geffner RA, Benjamin S. J. Aggression Maltreat. Trauma 1997; 1(1): 57-79.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J146v01n01_04

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Aggression in adult, intimate relationships is a significant problem with far reaching effects on victims, perpetrators, their families, and society. Recognizing the import of the problem, the U.S. Department of Justice has established a Violence Against Women office, and many state have enacted legislation to protect victims and deal with perpetrators. It is urgent that we understand the dynamics of relationship aggression so that effective interventions and preventive programs can be developed. This article reviews the current status of research on relationship aggression and identifies several omissions, most notably, ignorance of the potential contributions of biological factors. Recent research regarding the relevance of biological factors is reviewed and a Biopsychosocial model is presented. Finally, some suggestions are made for future research.