Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

0009-0004-0677-4047

Advisor

Nadorff, Danielle

Committee Member

Campbell, Kristen

Committee Member

McKinney, Cliff

Date of Degree

8-12-2026

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Psychology

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Psychology

Abstract

This study examined how caregiver type (alternate caregiving versus biological parent caregiving), childhood adversity, and parenting styles relate to intimate partner violence (IPV) and attachment outcomes. Guided by Intergenerational Transmission of Violence Theory, Social Learning Theory, and Attachment Theory, the study explored whether alternate caregiving buffered or intensified the effects of early adversity on later relational functioning. College students aged 18–25 from a southern U.S. university completed anonymous self-report measures assessing caregiving experiences, childhood trauma, attachment, and IPV. Measures included the Conflict Tactics Scale–Revised (CTS2), Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale (ACEs), and Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that caregiving variables were more strongly associated with attachment outcomes than IPV involvement. Higher ACEs and perceived overprotection predicted greater attachment anxiety, whereas higher perceived caregiver care predicted lower attachment avoidance. Findings emphasize the importance of caregiving quality in shaping relational functioning and informing violence-prevention interventions among underserved populations.

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