Hispanic Parents’ Conflict Tactics Influence on College Women’s Verbal Aggression Victimization

Abstract

Prior research has shown that college women in the United States are experiencing significantly high rates of verbal aggression (VA); approximately 20% to 30% of college women experience VA in their intimate relationships. Research has shown that familial conflict experiences directly influence these outcomes. Unfortunately, studies focusing on Hispanic college women's experiences are almost nonexistent, despite the fact that they are members of the largest minority population on college campuses today. To address this void in the literature, the influence of parental conflict strategies on 905 Hispanic college women's VA victimization in current romantic relationships was examined. Consistent with previous research, parental use of VA influenced VA victimization in participants' current romantic relationship. This study provides important information about Hispanic college populations' VA experiences, and the importance of familial processes in shaping these understandings.

“It’s more like the girl doesn’t really have to do anything”: Hispanic college women’s sexual initiation strategy perceptions.

“…However, negative consequences associated with sexual activity have been identified as a primary motivator for parents to talk to their Hispanic daughters about sexual health related issues (Guilamo-Ramos et al, 2007; Stephens & Thomas, 2011; Stephens et al, 2017). Prior research has noted Hispanic parental sexuality messaging content for daughters often focuses on questions of morals and values as well as the negative consequences of sexual activity, supporting concerns raised by participants in this study (Kennedy & Stephens, 2017; Stephens et al, 2016; Stephens & Fernandez, 2012a). The implication of this may be that the messages not only reinforce the inappropriateness of a woman acting on her sexual desires but also fail to provide empowering or comprehensive knowledge that would increase Hispanic college women’s ability to make healthy decisions.…”

“…Similarly, familial messaging about sexual health and intimate relationships has been found to significantly influence Hispanic women’s decision-making processes, particularly when it is led by parents (Faulkner, 2003; Kennedy & Stephens, 2017; Stephens & Fernandez, 2012a). However, negative consequences associated with sexual activity have been identified as a primary motivator for parents to talk to their Hispanic daughters about sexual health related issues (Guilamo-Ramos et al, 2007; Stephens & Thomas, 2011; Stephens et al, 2017).…”