ABSTRACT
We examined the variables comprising Johnson’s (2001) typology of violent couples dimensionally and in the context of the relationship as they relate to injury and observed behavior. A community sample of couples (N = 281) reported on self- and partner-perpetrated violence, control, and injury, and engaged in a conflict discussion. Women reported engaging in more violent acts and as much control as their partners and were more hostile than men during the conflict discussion. Twelve percent of women reported being the sole aggressor. For women, controlling but not violent behavior predicted observed, hostile behavior. For men, violence and control predicted hostility during the discussion. Clinically, both genders may benefit from treatments aimed at reducing violence and control.
