Longitudinal model predicting mutual partner violence among White, Black, and Hispanic couples in the United States general population.

This analysis determines the longitudinal predictors of male-to-female (MFPV) or female-to-male (FMPV) alone and mutual partner violence (MPV) among White, Black, and Hispanic couples. A national sample of couples 18 years of age or older was interviewed in 1995 and again in 2000. Participants constitute a multistage area probability sample representative of married and cohabiting couples from the 48 contiguous United States. Results indicate that most couples reporting violence engage in MPV. After controlling for other factors, Blacks are 3 times more likely to report MPV at follow-up and Hispanics are 9 times more likely to report MFPV. The results indicate that ethnic minorities are at greater risk of MPV. In addition, the predictors of partner violence vary depending on the type of partner violence. These findings highlight the importance of distinguishing different types of partner violence and have important epidemiological and prevention implications.