Psychology Commons^™

Applying Theoretical Explanations For Intimate Partner Violence, Sarah Devyn Trifari

Psychology Theses

In the current study, we examined attributions of betrayal trauma theory, learned helplessness and toxic masculinity within the context of intimate partner violence. Betrayal trauma theory posits that interpersonal violence leads to victim isolation. Learned helplessness describes victim apathy and maladaptive passivity. Toxic masculinity features male aggressiveness, abusiveness, and sexism as a function of internalized gender norms. When examined individually, each theory enhances our understanding of how intimate partner violence unfolds. However, the value of exploring intimate partner violence through a joint theoretical lens, allows us to expand our understanding and interpretation of the merits of each theory. With this …