Eysenck’s Personality Traits (EPQ-R) Score Differences Based on Gender and Role as Victim or Perpetrator of Domestic Violence in Uganda

Abstract

The present study aims to study Eysenck’s personality traits subscales (Psychoticism, Extroversion and Neuroticism) and how these traits differ among victims and perpetrators of domestic violence of both gender (N=120). A two by two MANCOVA was conducted and the results show no statistical significant differences, no interaction between males and females, victims and perpetrators on all Psychoticism, Extroversion and Neuroticism while controlling lie as covariate. However through inspecting mean scores, perpetrators more than victims reported slightly higher scores on Neuroticism (implying that they are anxious, depressed and react slowly to aversive stimuli but also have high levels of stability); and scored high on psychoticism (implying that higher scorers are considered aggressive, antisocial, cold and egocentric). In contrast, victim’s results revealed that irrespective of gender, victims more than perpetrators had high scores on extraversion. Higher scores on extroversion implies that females are more social, lively and sensation seeking. Indeed, majority of the victims were females and it’s not surprising that African women despite her being victims, could still afford to smile (scored high on extroversion). Thus, this study informs counsellors, social workers, psychologists and other helping professionals the need for gender inclusivity in handling cases of domestic violence but also being aware of victims/perpetrators individual’s personality differences. In addition, being aware of victims and perpetrators personality traits scores differences is informative and helps professionals to predict that person’s likely future behavior and how to respond.