Citation

Jennings WG, Richards TN, Tomsich EA, Gover AR, Powers RA. Women Crim. Justice 2013; 23(3): 167-184.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08974454.2013.802271

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

There has been a considerable amount of published research investigating the link between experiencing child abuse and later offending and victimization. Most of the evidence gleaned from these studies demonstrates support for a cycle of violence. However, prior research has overwhelmingly been based on correlational observations. Considering this limitation, the current study uses a rigorous, quasi-experimental research design to assess the causal effect of experiencing child abuse on adult dating violence perpetration and victimization. Relying on data from a large sample of college students and utilizing a propensity score matching approach, the results indicate that the link between child abuse and adult dating violence victimization and perpetration is spurious. Study limitations and implications are discussed.