Explaining Marital Violence Based on Executive Functions: Testing a Structural Equation Model Among Couples Involved in Judicial Proceedings

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Keywords:

  Structural equation modeling, Self, organization, Marital violence, control, Executive functions, Intimate partner violence

Abstract

This study aimed to explain marital violence based on executive functions and to test a structural equation model of the relationships between these variables among couples involved in judicial proceedings. This descriptive-correlational study employed structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of all couples attending the Family Court of Shiraz, from whom 400 couples, equivalent to 800 individuals, were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function–Adult Version. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation coefficients, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood estimation. Model fit was evaluated using χ²/df, GFI, AGFI, IFI, CFI, TLI, RMSEA, and SRMR. The total executive dysfunction score was positively and significantly associated with marital violence (r=0.66, p<0.001). The structural model demonstrated satisfactory fit (χ²/df=3.41, GFI=0.949, AGFI=0.921, IFI=0.958, CFI=0.957, TLI=0.948, RMSEA=0.055, SRMR=0.044). The overall path from executive dysfunction to marital violence was positive and significant (β=0.72, p<0.001), and the model explained 52% of the variance in marital violence. Emotional control (β=0.31, p<0.001), inhibition (β=0.24, p<0.001), working memory (β=0.16, p<0.001), cognitive flexibility (β=0.13, p=0.003), and self-monitoring (β=0.09, p=0.028) had significant direct effects on marital violence. Executive dysfunction, particularly impaired emotional control and inhibition, plays an important role in explaining marital violence among couples involved in judicial proceedings, suggesting that these domains should be considered in risk assessment, psychological intervention, and violence-prevention programs.

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Rastak, H., kimiaei, seyyed A., Kareshki, H. ., & Amin Yazdi, S. A. (1405). Explaining Marital Violence Based on Executive Functions: Testing a Structural Equation Model Among Couples Involved in Judicial Proceedings. Couple Therapy Assessment, Evaluation, and Intervention, 3(1), 1-28. https://www.jctaei.com/index.php/jctaei/article/view/115