Physical and sexual covictimization from dating partners: a distinct type of intimate abuse?

Covictimized women experience both physical and sexual forms of abuse. The purpose of the present research was to compare covictimized women to those who experienced physical violence only or unwanted sexual activity only from dating partners. Data were collected from two samples of female undergraduates in heterosexual relationships. Covictimization was associated with less general satisfaction (Study 1) and sexual satisfaction (Study 2), more arguing (Study 1) and verbal conflict (Study 2), and more partner psychological aggression (Studies 1 and 2). Overall, findings suggest that dating partner covictimization may be a distinct type of interpersonal abuse that warrants further research.