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Escalation and Maintenance of Spouse of Abuse - A Cybernetic Model

NCJ Number
95961
Journal
Victimology Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: (1984) Pages: 247-253
Author(s)
G M Erchak
Date Published
1984
Length
7 pages
Annotation
A cybernetic model of spouse abuse is presented as a contribution to the theoretical literature on spouse abuse. The victim's role in his or her own abuse is stressed; interaction between the participants in the system is emphasized.
Abstract
While the origins of abuse are discussed, the focus of the paper is on the maintenance and escalation of the pattern of abusive interaction. The author explains this pattern -- maintenance utilizing Bateson's concept of schismogenesis, or regenerative feedback, a concept derived from cybernetics and family systems theory. He concludes with suggestions for intervention in the process. (Author abstract)

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