Attachment theory (Bowlby, 1969, 1973, 1980) emphasizes the evolutionary significance of intimate relationships, especially those in early childhood. Bowlby believed that individuals have an inborn need for close attachments to significant others. Throughout childhood and adolescence, individuals develop expectations regarding the availability of attachment figures through multiple attachment relationships. Each relationship builds on the previous and contributes to the construction of what Bowlby called the "internal working model," which is a characteristic way of thinking about and responding to others in relationships. In testing this theory in male-to-female relationship violence, the current study interviewed 149 couples regarding their childhood attachment experiences, current adult attachment status, stress level, and current relationship history, including past violence. Results show that attachment factors were unique predictors of male violence toward a female intimate. Additionally, female partners of violent males were significantly more likely to have insecure adult attachment styles. The data provide some evidence for the role of attachment processes in explaining domestic violence. The findings underscore the importance of early determinants of intimate aggression, focusing on the basic attachment relationship. 4 tables and 37 references