Differences in Spousal Violence Against Women, Submissive Behaviors and Attachment Styles Between Generations

Purpose Regardless of marital status, women often face domestic violence. This study explores generational changes in attitudes, attachment styles, and submissive behaviors related to domestic violence against women. Unlike previous studies that focused solely on prevalence or cultural factors, this study uses validated scales to investigate intergenerational differences. The study examines women’s attitudes toward violence, including false beliefs, as well as their reported experiences. Methods This cross-sectional study included 400 women from four generations in Türkiye: Baby Boomers ( n = 64), Generation X ( n = 74), Generation Y ( n = 127), and Generation Z ( n = 135). Data were collected using the Submissive Acts Scale (SAS), Husband Violence Against Women Scale (HVAWS), and Three-Dimensional Attachment Styles Scale (TDASS). Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze generational differences in attitudes, attachment styles, and behaviors. Results The average age at marriage increased across generations, while marriage under age 18 decreased significantly: 65.6% in Baby Boomers, 17.6% in Gen X, and 3.9% in Gen Y. Reports of all types of violence declined among younger generations. False beliefs about violence were most prevalent among Baby Boomers, who also perceived higher social support for violence. Avoidant attachment was most common in Gen Z, while anxious-ambivalent attachment was highest among Baby Boomers. Conclusion Although domestic violence persists, it occurs less frequently among younger women. As societal views shift, misconceptions about violence are diminishing. Anxious attachment style appears to be linked to spousal violence. Compared to Baby Boomers, younger generations demonstrate a trend toward more secure attachment styles.