Gender Comparison of the Effect of Romantic Relationship Dissatisfaction on Dating Violence: Moderating Effect of Attachment

This study investigated the relationship between dissatisfaction in romantic relationships and dating violence perpetration among young unmarried adults. Using data from 412 unmarried individuals with dating experience, collected through a self-reported online survey, descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were conducted to examine potential gender differences. Additionally, the moderating effect of insecure attachment on the relationship between romantic relationship dissatisfaction and dating violence perpetration was examined. The results revealed the following: First, there was a positive correlation between romantic relationship dissatisfaction, dating violence perpetration, and insecure attachment. Second, for men, insecure attachment functioned as a moderating variable in the relationship between romantic relationship dissatisfaction and dating violence perpetration. Third, for women, insecure attachment moderated only the relationship between romantic relationship dissatisfaction and sexual violence. These findings indicate that the patterns of violence differ by gender, with insecure attachment in men more likely to trigger a broader range of violent behaviors, whereas in women, it specifically intensifies sexual violence. These results suggest the need for gender-specific interventions in the prevention of dating violence. Finally, the study's significance and limitations are discussed.