The Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Negative Affect: The Mediating Role of Adult Attachment

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a major public issue. However, data on the emotional impact of IPV is limited and the mechanisms involved are poorly explored. Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess the effect of IPV experiences on negative affect, exploring the mediating role of adult attachment (anxiety and avoidance). A total of 599 participants (Mage = 28.01; SD = 7.81) were recruited. The following self-reports were used: Conflict Tactic Scale-Short form; Experience in Close Relationships Scale; Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. Direct and indirect effect of IPV on negative affect were tested through a mediation analysis. IPV experiences resulted not directly associated with negative affect. However, an indirect relationship emerged mediated by attachment anxiety and avoidance. These findings highlight the emotional impact of IPV experiences, emphasizing the role of deactivating and hyperactivating strategies of the attachment system.