Effects of Domestic Violence on Trust, Emotional Regulation, and Commitment in Subsequent Romantic Relationships

Abstract

Domestic violence (DV) is the event that has a significant psychological impact that goes past the sense of being abused and has an immeasurable effect on future romantic relationships. The current research investigated the impact of domestic violence on the trust, emotional regulation, and commitment among adults in the range of 20 40 years of age. The quantitative cross-sectional design was used with a sample of 100 respondents who had gone through abusive relationships in the past. The Revised Life Orientation Test (LOT-R), Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6), Recovery Assessment Scale (RAS-24), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and Investment Model Commitment Scale were assessed via online survey.

The findings showed that the severity of domestic violence was correlated with reduced trust and commitment and increased emotional dysregulation. Recovery was found to be a significant protective element whereas gratitude and optimism came out as moderate buffering variables. The results not only indicate the trauma carryover effect on romantic functioning but also indicate the importance of psychological strengths on relational healing. The paper highlights the necessity of using the trauma-informed and strength-based forms of therapy to enhance the outcome of romantic relationships between the victims of domestic violence.