ABSTRACT

This study explored the functional, interpersonal style of a small group of lesbians who had abused their partners (N = 15) and enrolled in a pilot feminist abuse cessation therapy program. Each completed a Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation-Behavior scale (FIRO-B), a self-report assessment tool that measures expressed and wanted inclusion, control, and affection. Robust findings from the small, ethnically homogenous sample are discussed in terms of their implications for understanding one interpersonal dynamic of control in lesbian relationships in which there is abuse. Future directions for therapy and research are also outlined. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: <getinfo@haworthpressinc.com> Website: <https://www.HaworthPress.com" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">https://www.HaworthPress.com> © 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]