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Topic

Male-Type Depression, Masculinity, and Male-Perpetrated Intimate Partner Violence

Department of Psychology

Date & location

• Tuesday, August 12, 2025

• 12:00 P.M.

• Cornett Building

• Room A228

Reviewers

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Erica Woodin, Department of Psychology, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ (Supervisor)

• Dr. Catherine Costigan, Department of Psychology, UVic (Member) 

External Examiner

• Dr. Eugene Emeka Dim, Department of Sociology, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ 

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Mara Marin, Department of Political Science, UVic

   

Abstract

As the predominant perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV), understanding psychological contributors to men’s engagement in harmful or dominating behaviors in intimate relationships is pivotal in reducing IPV-related harm. Converging evidence suggests that unique manifestations of depression among men (male-type depressive symptoms) may contribute to various forms of IPV, including both general abuse and coercive control. These male-type depressive symptoms are linked to the endorsement of traditional masculine gender norms and are often characterized by increases in anger or internalized shame and guilt. A model of restrictive masculine ideologies, male-type depressive symptoms, associated affective experiences, and harmful conduct with intimate partners (IPV and coercive control) was explored with a sample of 239 male-identifying adult participants in active romantic relationships. Endorsement of masculine ideals of restrictive emotionality was a significant predictor of both male-type and general depressive symptoms. Both male-type and general depressive symptoms were also predictors of elevated anger and shame/guilt. Male-type depressive symptoms, but not general depressive symptoms, were a significant predictor of IPV perpetration. Male-type depressive symptoms also mediated the relationship between masculine ideals of restrictive emotionality and IPV. Neither general nor male-type depressive symptoms shared a direct relationship with coercive control behaviors in the model. However, there were significant indirect relationships between both classes of depressive symptoms and coercive control through anger. Serial mediations were also observed from masculine ideals of restrictive emotionality to coercive control through both classes of depressive symptoms and anger. Together, these findings underscore the potential for male-type depressive symptoms and masculine ideals of restrictive emotionality to act as risk factors for IPV and coercive control perpetration, offering insight for the improvement of screening, prevention, and intervention programs alongside foundations for ongoing research.