Perceptual Distortions, Contempt, and Intimate Partner Aggression, Kentucky, 2006-2007

In relationships characterized by control, abuse, or violence, many appraisal distortions occur including denial and minimization. However, the nature of the distortion varies depending on the individual's role in the relationship (i.e., abuser or victim). Reducing these distortions is an important component in treatment success and involves accepting responsibility for actions and attributions. Relying on semi-structured interviews with 29 individuals who had been in abusive relationships, this study uses constructivist grounded theory methods to explore the following questions: What are the types of distortions that are used by individuals who have been in violent or abusive relationships? What are the gender and power differences in the appraisal distortions used? What are the functions and interactions of the distortions in the relationship dynamics?