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Multidimensional Trait Emotional Intelligence and Aggressive Tendencies in Male Offenders of Domestic Violence

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Abstract

This study was undertaken to identify the role of six facets of trait-emotional intelligence (EI) in men’s aggressive tendencies toward intimate partners (N = 131). Consistent with past research, hierarchical regression showed emotional self-regulation and empathy were negatively and uniquely predictive of four self-reported aggressive tendencies: physical aggression, verbal aggression, anger, and hostility. Canonical correlations yielded two distinct patterns of relationships between EI and aggressive tendencies. The first canonical correlation supported an overall negative relationship, especially involving dependent variables anger and hostility. A second canonical correlation revealed higher physical and verbal aggression were associated with higher emotional self-recognition, regulation of others’ emotions, nonverbal emotional expression, and lower empathy. Findings support a multidimensional understanding of EI and aggressive tendencies.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge Missy Iski and Laurie Lucci in their assistance with this study.

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  1. Department of Psychology, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, 74104, USA

    Anna E. Jaffe, Daniel V. Simonet, Robert P. Tett, Rachael M. Swopes & Joanne L. Davis

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  1. Anna E. Jaffe
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Jaffe, A.E., Simonet, D.V., Tett, R.P. et al. Multidimensional Trait Emotional Intelligence and Aggressive Tendencies in Male Offenders of Domestic Violence. J Fam Viol 30, 769–781 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-015-9729-3

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