A multifaceted approach of dating violence among adolescents and emerging adults

Romantic relationships contribute to the development of adolescents and emerging adults. A growing literature has studied violence occurring between dating partners: dating violence (DV) raises concerns for the well-being of youth. Following a multifaceted approach, the present research aims to examine individual variables associated with DV. A sample made up of 1811 students - from secondary schools (mean age = 17.3, σ =0.86) and a college (mean age = 19.9, σ =2.11) - was self-administered validated questionnaires investigating perpetration/victimization of DV, attitudes toward DV, empathy, impulsivity, language and alcohol use. Results show patterns of gender symmetry, multiperpetration/multivictimization and bidirectionality. Attitudes toward DV are associated with the perpetration/victimization of DV (both face-to-face and online DV). Males’ attitudes are more in favor of DV than females’. Female-perpetrated physical and sexual DV are more accepted than male-perpetrated ones. Several dimensions of empathy and language are negatively associated with DV perpetration, while several dimensions of impulsivity are positively associated with DV perpetration. As for alcohol, higher scores of hazardous drinking puts at risk of insulting a dating partner or being insulted by a dating partner in a context of alcohol use. This research can contribute to the development of multifaceted prevention programs among youth.