A Deeper Understanding of the Relationship between Family of Origin and Young Adult Cyber Dating Abuse: A Mediation Model

Abstract

Little research has examined factors that may mediate the experience of cyber dating abuse, a pervasive problem for young adults. This study explores how family of origin, insecure attachment, and emotion regulation are associated with cyber dating abuse perpetration and victimization. Undergraduate students ( N = 320) completed an online survey and Structural Equation Modeling was used to perform mediation analyses. Results indicated that the relationship between family environment and cyber dating abuse perpetration was mediated by emotion regulation and anxious attachment; whereas, anxious attachment was the only significant mediator for cyber dating abuse victimization. Avoidant attachment was not a significant mediator. Based on findings in this study, clinicians can capitalize on therapeutic interventions related to emotion regulation and anxious attachment to mitigate the effects of cyber dating abuse. Working with families or partners using a systemic therapy framework can be beneficial to those who may be experiencing cyber dating abuse.