ABSTRACT
Objective
This study examines how intimate partner violence (IPV) and two types of non-monogamy—ambiguous-consent non-monogamy (ACNM; concurrent sexual partners in relationships without an explicit agreement about monogamy or non-monogamy) and non-consensual non-monogamy (NCNM; cheating in relationships committed to monogamy)—co-occur and shape the probability of dissolution.
Background
Ending a relationship can be normative and healthy, particularly when it reflects a response to harmful dynamics.
Method
Data are from the Relationship Dynamics and Social Life study, including 27,924 weekly surveys from 895 young women and in-depth interviews with 58 young women. Descriptive statistics assess clustering of IPV types and their co-occurrence with ACNM and NCNM. Relationship-level fixed effects models estimate the weekly probability of dissolution across 2529 intimate relationships. A narrative thematic analysis of in-depth interviews assesses the logics underlying decisions to remain in or dissolve relationships.
Results
Non-monogamy (both NCNM and ACNM) and partner-perpetrated IPV frequently co-occurred. The probability of relationship dissolution was much higher following either NCNM or ACNM. The probability of dissolution was somewhat higher following some types of IPV but not following assault or threats.
Conclusion
Findings, interpreted through expectancy violations theory, suggest NCNM and ACNM function as powerful relational breaches, while physical IPV (assault) may operate differently from chronic psychological IPV in predicting dissolution.
Implications
Researchers and sexuality educators should address adverse experiences as a relational system.