Prof. CHEUNG Yuet-WahChoi, Susanne Y. P.Susanne Y. P.ChoiCheung, Adam K. L.Adam K. L.Cheung2017-01-232017-01-232014Violence and Victims, 2014, vol. 29 (2), pp. 280-299.0886-6708http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11861/3849This study examines the applicability of Agnew's strain theory and Gottfredson and Hirschi's self-control theory in explaining husband-to-wife psychological aggression and physical assault in a community survey of 871 couples in Hong Kong. Three strains, each belonging to 1 type of Agnew's types of strain, were selected, namely, dissatisfaction with family financial situation, dissatisfaction with relationship with spouse, and physical abuse by parents in childhood. Self-control was measured with a simplified version of 12 items selected from the 24-item Self-control Scale developed by Grasmick, Tittle, Bursik, and Ameklev (1993). The conditioning effect of self-control on the relationship between strain and husband-to-wife violence was also examined. Results show that 2 of the 3 types of strain and self-control significantly affected both types of spousal violence. In addition, self-control has a conditioning effect on the relationship between strain and husband-to-wife violence, reducing the likelihood of strain leading to violence. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.enHouseholdsHusbandsFamilies & family lifeDomestic violencePeer Reviewed Journal Article